Very few horses have perfect conformation. In many cases, mild deviations from correct conformation do not cause the horse problems. However, some conformational abnormalities are taken much more seriously than others. A critical factor is the proposed or current use of the horse.

We generally tolerate less deviation from normal conformation in performance horses. But even this statement has its exceptions, because it depends on the particular deviation and particular discipline. For example, a horse with small feet and a pigeon toe may not be a good candidate for show jumping because show jumpers need to have relatively correct and heavy lower forelimbs due to repeated overloading of these forelimbs on landing. However, the same horse might be perfectly acceptable for pleasure use.

There is no guarantee that a particular conformational defect will cause problems. Problems are simply more likely than with a horse of perfect conformation. In almost all disciplines, there have been winning performance horses that have had poor conformation. Cannonero II won the Derby and Preakness in 1971 with a very crooked leg. Everyone knows the story of Seabiscuit’s apparently poor conformation. Generally, however, good conformation for a purpose predisposes to good performance.