Leg development

[Neume]

I’ve been thinking a lot about the future and what horse I’d like to buy next. At the moment, I’m really drawn to Welsh Ds and Connemaras, as I love their temperament and versatility. However, I do have some concerns about their legs. I’m specifically looking for a horse with good legs and hocks that aren’t too straight.

Since I’m interested in a young horse, I’m wondering when you can typically start to see how the legs will develop as the horse matures. I’ve been trying to find information, but it seems to vary quite a bit, especially between the ages of 1 and 3, and even later on.

What have your experiences been like in terms of leg development? Any advice or insights would be greatly appreciated!

 

[TheMule]

Basic angles are pretty much set from birth, though the old saying '3 days, 3 weeks, 3 months, 3 years' is pretty accurate for when it might be best to look at them! If you can get good quality side-on photos then you should be able to judge the horse at any age

 

[Equi]

I could tell my colt had a slight cow hock from a few days old. Was very sad about it as he showed like a dream.

 

[Asha]

Agree with TM ,

Here an example for you

Rustle at minutes old , then 6 months then 2yo

 

[Asha]

Then another one . Hours old versus 3yo

 

[Widgeon]

Having recently bought a Connemara colt from photos (I know some of his relatives and pretty much bought him on the basis of their outstanding temperaments and his big chunky knees ) I would say, maybe don't worry too much about entire breeds because of their general confirmation. Connemaras (as I now know) do seem to tend towards straighter back legs, but there are loads of them out there doing active, useful jobs - so they're clearly still highly functional. All breeds have their quirks - you just have to judge the individual horse in front of you.

If you're buying a youngster there will be loads to choose from so if you're not quite happy with what you're seeing, regardless of the horse's age, just pass and move on.

 

[Neume]

Thank you all for the answers. And the images you attached were especially helpful to give me a clear picture of how a horse's legs develop, I really appreciate it!