As a little girl, my dad, Tom Wagoner, shared a simple trick. For years, I thought this was common knowledge. However, in my many travels I have found several horsemen and fellow trainers who were amazed by this little tick.
I’d like to share a simple and easy way to determine the mature height of a young horse. When selling young prospects, I’m sure you have all had a potential buyer ask this question, “How tall will he be?” Now, you will have a quick answer!
First, catch your young horse, using a halter with a long lead rope. Use the end of the lead rope to measure from the point of the horse’s elbow to the point of the fetlock, or ergot. While holding this measurement, flip the lead rope to measure from the point of the horse’s elbow to above the withers. This will show you how tall you can expect your horse to be at maturity.
This is generally only useful for horses ages 2 to 4. This can also be tested for accuracy on mature horses. They should measure the same length from the point of the elbow to the fetlock, as they do from the point of the elbow to the top of their wither.
Try this on your youngsters! Looking into the future, you will be able to see how easy it will be to get on him while bundled in Wyoming winter clothing!!!!!!
Horses are the cornerstone of my family, occupation, and lifestyle! I am fortunate to be the daughter of renowned horseman, Tom Wagoner, who is also the founder of Feet First Horsemanship. Tom has always been my main influence while training horses, and I'm...
