Pigeon toed

Question
I am purchasing a 5yo 16.2 mare that has a right front pigeon toe. She is enough to really notice when she is standing or riding. She is properly shoed, not corrected, and she does not favor, trip, or anything weird. She does flare out the right leg on right corners and sometimes trots "wide" in front. She is sound and rides beautifully with excellent training. I am wondering what limitations she would have and how is this considered in the equitation showing world? Would she have points removed for this confirmation "flaw" that makes her track a little different?  How much would be too much stress on her for flat work, and other concerns.  Any information would be greatly appreciated.  Thank you.

Answer
Hi Kelly,

The subject of pigeon toed horses usually sparks debate from person to person as to wether the horse can withstand the long term rigors of performance. But from both a personal and professional standpoint, I can tell you that my own experience with pigeon toed horses has yielded nothing but normal results no different from a perfectly straight legged horse.
That being said, it's important to keep in mind what purpose the horse will be used for and how much it will be ridden. The main concern, of course is the uneven wearing of the hoof on the side of the pigeon toe but proper shoeing should help eliminate this problem.  The other long term concern is the possibility of stiffness or arthritis in the affected joints due to uneven weight dispersal. If you are talking about endurance disciplines such as eventing or show jumping I might think twice but if you are taking about dressage, hunter, western pleasure or any other lower impact disciplines, it shouldn't effect her performance or limit her in any way.

I have a 16.2 hand mare and she also toes in and it has never affected her either in the show ring or the practice arena at home. These horses do have a tendency to "swing out" a little at the trot but I don't think you have to worry about her being marked down for a conformation flaw unless, of course, you are showing her in a conformation class. Otherwise if she knows her job and does it well, this is all a judge is usually concerned with. Pigoened toed horses are very common and from a personal standpoint I would not let it disuade me from purchasing a great horse. Good luck with your new horse!

Tina