Sport horse

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A sport horse is term used to describe a type of horse, although not a particular breed. It usually encompases any horse that is used for the English-styled equestrian disciplines or for fox hunting. These disciplines include dressage, eventing, hunter competition, and show jumping. However, some conside those used as show hunters to be show horses, rather than sport horses. Horses used for combined driving may also be referred to as sport horses.

Horses used for the western-styled disciplines, those used for Saddleseat, and horses used for any form of racing are not considered sport horses.

[edit] Breeding

Sport horses are bred for specific qualities in their conformation, movement, and temperament.

• Conformation: most sport horses have similarities in their conformation. These include a sloping shoulder, "turned-over" neck, and uphill build. Conformation has direct effects on the animal's movement and jumping ability.

• Movement: although movement may vary between disciplines, most sport horses are bred for a long, athletic stride and movement that uses the whole body. The trot and canter should have good suspension, and the horse naturally reaches under his body with his hind legs. This movement makes it easier for the rider to teach the horse to engage, collect, and extend his stride, which are necessary qualities in all sport horse disciplines.

• Jumping ability: horses bred for the jumping disciplines also possess good jumping form, with tight lower legs and good bascule. They are also bred to have conformation that allows them to jump higher.

• Temperament: because of the great deal of training needed to produce a successful sport horse, they are generally bred for trainability and willingness to work. Horses intended for Olympic-level may be bred a bit "hotter," which can be controlled by their experienced riders and used to his or her advantage, while those intended for amateur use are generally bred to be quieter and more forgiving.

[edit] Breeds

This warmblood was bred for its jumping ability.

Warmbloods were specifically developed for use as sport horses, particularily for use in dressage and show jumping. Thoroughbreds often make good sport horses, although they may require a good amount of training if they had previous careers on the track. However, many non-traditional breeds, such as the Quarter Horse, pony breeds, and gaited breeds, have individuals that make fine sport horses and some that are successful at the highest levels.