In athletics as in architecture, form follows function, and nowhere is that truth more important than in equestrian sports. The better a horse's conformation (how the animal measures up to, or ''conforms,'' to the ideal standards of its breed or type), the better it will be able to perform. Using hundreds of photographs and drawings, this masterfully produced book will show you how to develop the ''eye'' that any horseman needs to assess equine conformation and anatomy. Its comprehensive text focuses on ideal and abnormal conformation features; balance and symmetry; the relationship between conformation faults and athletic ability; colors and markings; as well as anatomical elements, teeth, and aging; body systems; and the relationship between structure and function. Now in paperback, HORSE CONFORMATION is the single most valuable book on its subject and one that deserves a prominent place in every horse owner's or rider's library.