Ridecamp: Re: [RC] Weight of horse compared to rider

> I think structure and conformation are much more important that height.

That, Karen, is the bottom line.  The problem is that when height is used
as a primary selection factor, other conformational parameters and
relationships are altered.  Sometimes height just "happens"--and when it
does and the resulting animal is still proportionate and well-conformed,
then so be it.  However, astute breeders (and I'd refer folks again to the
Harris quotes from clear back in 1944) have recognized for a long time
that breeding for height has in general been a negative factor with
relationship to overall conformation.  This detrimental effect of "bigger
is better" on the overall animal is also something that I hear about from
my geneticist friends regarding species other than horses--so perhaps Joe
has a point with his analogy about humans as well.

Heidi



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