How to Show a Welsh Cob Horse

During the Middle Ages, the Welsh cob was primarily a farm animal. Nowadays, it's commonly raised as a show horse. Properly showing a Welsh cob horse can make the difference between placing high and not placing at all. Aside from the horse's presentation, it's also essential that the person showing the horse can keep up with it. The rider must be fully trained and know how to best display the horse's temperament, conformation and movement.

Things You'll Need

  • Show attire
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Wear attire that's appropriate for the show you've entered. Dress code rules may vary depending on the type of show you've entered. Have your clothes cleaned and pressed so you look like a winner.

    • 2

      Avoid using a Welsh cob horse that's black and white, or white and another color. Such horses -- referred to as piebald or skewbald -- are generally not allowed to participate in Welsh cob horse shows.

    • 3

      Choose a horse that meets all the show requirements for the Welsh cob breed. Make sure the horse has big, prominent eyes -- set far apart. The horse's shoulders must be strong and its neck long. Its legs must be long with muscular thighs. The horse must have a lean, strong build, and its tail must be naturally well-set, without the use of altering products to increase its height.

    • 4

      Groom your horse according to the rules set forth by the event and show class you've entered. Depending on the event, your horse's mane or legs may have to be trimmed. Bathe and brush your horse beforehand, so its coat looks healthy, clean and shiny.

    • 5

      Decide whether you'll show your Welsh cob barefoot or with shoes on. Look into the show regulations. Often, young Welsh cobs are allowed to be barefoot. However, if shoes are required, go by the weight and size requirements mentioned in the show rules.

    • 6

      Follow the presentation outline when showing your horse. Whether you're showing your horse in-hand or while riding dressage, stick to the route set forth by the event. You may have to follow a triangular-shaped outline or a circular one.

    • 7

      Halt your horse in the designated locations, so the judges can observe and examine it. Position your horse so all four legs are visible. The front leg closest to the judges must be slightly forward, and the hind leg closest to the judges must be slightly back.

    • 8

      Ride your horse, or walk and trot with it, in the designated areas. Avoid pulling the reigns too hard, because this may affect your horse's posture. Your horse must have relaxed, long strides. Show the horse's obedience by switching from a walk to a trot and back.

    • 9

      Aim to display your horse's manners, confidence and strength, because these are character traits of a Welsh cob horse that are essential during shows.