Conformation of Hindlimbs ( From Rear )

1 = " Regular Stance " . With such a limb position , the space between the two feet is about one hoof from quarter to quarter.

2 = " Closed Behind " . It is generally found in horses with narrow chests , croup and loins i.e. showing underdevelopment of the body musculature generally. The horse is rendered less stable since the base of support lessened and the horse is disposed to interfering and general awkwardness of gait.

3 = " Cow - Hocked " . This conformation is also generally associated with Outbow - Footedness as in the illustration. The horse tends to be quite stable but movement is awkward , although not necessarily diminished in speed and the hindlimbs have a tendency to go wide in a sliding stop. In time , strain on the hock may cause bone spavin.

4 = " Too Open Behind " . As with the forelimbs , should the openness be due to excessive muscle development of the trunk , then the horse may well be very stable and very powerful. On the other hand , should the situation arise from poor muscle development , the limbs will diverge from above downwards and the inner face of the limbs from the hock downwards will be subjected to unnecessary strain.

5 = " Cow - Hocked ". Since the hock is somewhat curved , it is subjected to unusual stress on the lateral ligaments which are stretched and the inner bones which are overloaded. The outer quarter of the foot may be subjected to excessive wear relative to the inner quarter.

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