Foal tests may define future champion horses.
A French study over the last four years has identified nine simple tests on young horses that can determine their likely temperament as an adult.
Each horse can then be directed toward the discipline for which it is best suited.
While there is little doubt that experienced horsemen and women will be able to assess the temperament of their own young horses, the tests are likely to be useful for those needing to assess a young horse they are only meeting for the first time.
Scientists say that a young horse's reactions to the following tests will paint a clear picture of its temperament:
1. Open an umbrella in front of the foal and watch how far it retreats.
2. Put a sheet on the ground between the foal and its dinner. Does the animal go around or over it?
3. Touch the foal around its wither with a fine filament and see how much the muscles quiver. Some horses will always quiver, while others will not react at all.
4. Put two foals together, then remove one for 80 seconds. Analyse the other's reaction.
5. Stand still in front of the foal for 90 seconds and observe its behaviour.
6. Assess how easy it is to put on a halter. Is it moving around, biting, or sniffing?
7. Touch the foal's hind quarters and watch whether its stomach muscles contract.
8. Measure the foal's reaction when put in an unknown stable.
9. Assess the foal's general activity levels throughout the tests.
A link was sought between the different temperament aspects identified and the aptitude of the 350 horses to being broken in (handling, lunging, jumping, walking outside).
From this, two profiles were identified.
The first profile corresponded to less fearful horses which reacted little to humans, and were not very socially motivated and active. These horses proved to be the easiest to handle and were better suited to leisure riding.
The second profile corresponded to more fearful horses, reacting more to humans and more socially motivated and active. These horses proved to be more difficult to handle, but were more successful over jumps and at dressage. They would therefore be better suited to experienced horsemen for sports riding.
I would love to know how Moon would have reacted to some of these tests! I wish I could have seen him as a colt, (although he's still a baby to me!)
How do you think this little guy would fare at the temperment tests?
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Reader Comments (8)
This subject of temperment was addressed in "Animals In Translation" by Temple Grandin. She believes the placement of the face whorl (cowlick) is a giveaway to how spirited or reactive a horse will be. The higher up, the more spirited. I don't have the book with me down here so I can't quote it exactly, but I go back to that idea so often that I'm going to grab it next time I'm in the states.
Ok if I link you on my site?
Hey Madison,
I just wanted to let you know your blog has been Horse Approved and added to the Horse Blog list. I think it's great what your doing with your blog. Keep up the good work!
http://horseapproved.com/horse-blogs/