Last Updated on February 22, 2022 by Allison Price
Are you thinking of buying a cob. To help you make the right choice, take a look at our advice.
The ultimate horse for fun is the cob. A top-class show horse can win you the Horse of the Year Show. An all-rounder can show you cross-country or show jumping and become a great family friend.
Correct conformation for a cob
Cobs are generally considered a type and not a breed. However, the Welsh Section D, which is also a native breed, is sometimes referred to as the Welsh Cob.
It is possible for a cob to have known breeding, or that his lineage has not been recorded. This makes it even more confusing.
The average cob type is between 14.2hhh and 15.2hh. They are smaller in size and more durable than other types, making them less expensive to keep. A tall rider will not be offended if the girth is sufficient.
The show cob is the best example of conformation in cobs – even if you don’t plan to show it, these points are very helpful.
- Your cob should have a short back. He should also have enough width through his chest to allow for the rider to reach his legs.
- He should be able to reach one corner of the body and have quality, clean limbs.
- He should have cannon bones that are short
- Show cobs will have a strong neck that is proportional to his body.
- A well-built shoulder should allow for cobs to move forward, rather than up and back.
- You can make a saddle fitter out of a cob’s withers if there is some definition. However, many cobs, like some native ponies have very little wither.
These are the golden rules to buying a cob
- You shouldn’t underestimate the power of a cob. You might be surprised at his basic conformation, movement, and temperament.
- A cob can be described as a type of dog rather than a breed. The exception being the Welsh Section D, also known as the Welsh Cob.
- Many cobs are Irish Draught horses or have heavy horse blood.
- Cobs take a long time to reach maturity and can continue growing until seven years of age.
- Although most cobs can trot naturally, it can take some time for the canter to become natural.
- A cob that isn’t properly trained can be a problem. Expert advice from someone who has worked with cobs will help you to assess his potential.
- You want to be a star show-cob, so remember the old saying “A show cob should have both the head and backside of a duchess”!
