* To ensure accurate measurements. If different people use different methods to measure a horse's height, it can lead to confusion and inaccurate information. A universal measurement system ensures that everyone is using the same method and getting the same results.
* To facilitate communication. When people are discussing horses, it is helpful to be able to use a common language to describe their height. A universal measurement system makes it easy for people from different countries and cultures to communicate about horses.
* To assist in breeding and management. Knowing a horse's height can be helpful for breeding purposes, as well as for managing the horse's care and training. For example, a taller horse may need a larger stall and a different type of saddle than a shorter horse.
The most common unit of measurement for a horse's height is the hand. A hand is equal to four inches, so a horse that is 16 hands high is 64 inches tall. This measurement is taken from the ground to the highest point of the horse's withers, which is the ridge between the shoulder blades.
There are also two other less common units of measurement that are sometimes used for a horse's height. These are the inch and the centimeter. An inch is equal to 2.54 centimeters, so a horse that is 16 hands high is also 64 inches or 163 centimeters tall.
Using a universal measurement system for a horse's height helps to ensure accurate measurements, facilitates communication, and assists in breeding and management.