Dishing is the term used to describe the movement of a horse’s legs when they are bent inwards towards its body. It is a common movement that is seen in many different breeds and disciplines of horses. It can have a positive or negative effect on the horse’s performance, depending on the situation and the horse’s conformation. In this article, we will explore what dishing means in horses, how it affects their performance, and the types of horses it is most commonly seen in.
What is Dishing?
Dishing is a movement of a horse’s legs that occurs when the leg is bent inwards towards its body. This movement is most commonly seen in dressage horses and is used to help the horse move in a more collected and balanced way. It is also seen in some western disciplines, such as reining and cutting, where the horse is asked to move with a more collected and controlled gait.
The Effect of Dishing on Performance
Dishing can have a positive or negative effect on a horse’s performance, depending on the situation and the horse’s conformation. When performed correctly, dishing can help the horse move in a more collected and balanced way, which can improve its performance in dressage and other disciplines. However, when dishing is overdone or not performed correctly, it can cause the horse’s legs to be too close together, which can impede its movement and cause it to be unbalanced and off-balance.
Types of Horses that Dish
Dishing is most commonly seen in dressage horses, as they are asked to move in a more collected and balanced way. It is also seen in some western disciplines, such as reining and cutting. Dishing is also seen in some other breeds, such as Tennessee Walking Horses and Paso Finos, which are both gaited horse breeds.
Causes of Dishing
There are several possible causes of dishing in horses. One of the most common causes is poor conformation, which can cause the horse’s legs to be too close together and result in dishing. Other causes of dishing include improper training, incorrect riding technique, and physical issues, such as soreness or lameness.
How to Correct Dishing
If a horse is displaying signs of dishing, it is important to take steps to correct the issue. The first step is to assess the horse’s conformation and make any necessary changes, such as trimming its feet or changing its diet. It is also important to assess the horse’s training and riding technique to ensure that it is being ridden correctly and not being asked to do too much. If the issue is due to a physical issue, such as soreness or lameness, it is important to have the horse examined by a veterinarian and implement any necessary treatments.
Signs to Look for
When assessing a horse for signs of dishing, there are a few signs to look for. One of the most obvious signs is when the horse’s legs are bent inwards towards its body. Other signs include when the horse’s hind legs are too close together, when it has an unbalanced or off-balance gait, or when it has difficulty moving in a collected manner.
Preventing Dishing
The best way to prevent dishing is to ensure that the horse’s conformation is correct and that it is being trained and ridden correctly. It is also important to ensure that the horse is given regular breaks from work and is given the opportunity to move in a more natural way. Additionally, it is important to assess the horse regularly for any signs of soreness or lameness, as these can also cause dishing.
The Benefits of Dishing
When performed correctly, dishing can help the horse move in a more collected and balanced way, which can improve its performance in dressage and other disciplines. Additionally, dishing can help the horse move in a more natural way, which can help it to stay sound and healthy.
Tips for Training a Horse to Dish
When training a horse to dish, it is important to ensure that the horse is comfortable with the movement and that it is being asked to do it in a way that is easy and natural for it. It is also important to ensure that the horse is given regular breaks from work and is given the opportunity to move in a more natural way. Additionally, it is important to take the time to assess the horse’s conformation and make any necessary changes, such as trimming its feet or changing its diet.
Conclusion
Dishing is a common movement in horses that is seen in many different breeds and disciplines. It can have a positive or negative effect on the horse’s performance, depending on the situation and the horse’s conformation. When performed correctly, dishing can help the horse move in a more collected and balanced way, which can improve its performance. To prevent dishing, it is important to ensure that the horse’s conformation is correct and that it is being trained and ridden correctly. Additionally, it is important to assess the horse regularly for any signs of soreness or lameness, as these can also cause dishing.