Halter (horse Show) - Stock Breeds

Stock Breeds

The stock horse breeds in the United States put more emphasis on quality of conformation in the stand-up presentation, though movement is also scored. Stock breeds include the American Quarter Horse, Appaloosa, American Paint Horse and breeds of similar body type. In most classes, horses are required to walk and trot in a straight line, usually walking toward the judge and trotting away from the judge, then assessed individually from a standstill. The horse is to stand perfectly square on all four feet. The head is usually held at a natural angle that is flattering to the individual horse, not too high or too low.

Manes are shortened and pulled, then combed to lay flat, and often are "banded" with small rubber bands. Horses are given basic show clipping of ears, legs, muzzle and bridle path, polish is often used on hooves, and silicone-based sprays on the hair coat, but excess glitz and oil on the horse is frowned upon.

Most competitor wear Western style attire, usually including a jacket and a cowboy hat, and horses are presented in a flat leather halter, usually ornamented with silver.