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What to Look for in a Palomino or Cream Dilute 

The British Palomino Society is a small organisation, run by hard-working volunteers, with a passion to encourage  
and assist the advancement of Palominos and all Cream Dilutes for competition and breeding here in the UK. 
At times it can be hard to pinpoint what judges are looking for in showing classes as each will have their own view and opinion. 
 
However, each association and breed society will have set criteria against which the horse or pony is first and foremost judged.Here the British Palomino Society offer some top tips on what to look out for when purchasing a Palomino or Cream Dilute for showing. 
 
The first point to consider is the horse or pony’s conformation. Depending on which class you are wanting to enter there are different requirements. For example, a lead rein show pony would have a different build to a Working Hunter. Owners need to try and make sure their new purchase is going to fit the category and requirements of the judge for the class they want to compete in. 
 
In a show horse or pony the top line wants to be well built, but not over-topped as it shows the horse or pony works well in an outline and is using its muscles. Be careful it isn’t fat as this could mean they are on the heavier side rather than competition fit. 
Photo courtesy of EmmPix Photography. 
Also check for any curb’s, false curb’s or windgalls as this is a severe fault in the showing world. 
 
Movement in the show ring is key to success. Depending on the class some ponies and horses will need to glide along the ground, flicking a toe while in Welsh classes knee action and extravagance will catch the judges attention. Looking at how they move both in an arena and across a field is key. The judges will be looking closely at how they cover the ground. 
 
The horse or pony will need to be light when working around the ring and possess a “look at me attitude”. Horses and ponies in the show ring really need to have a natural presence and grow in the ring, while keeping calm and relaxed at the same time. 
 
The atmosphere at many of the big shows can be electric so consider temperament and the ability to cope in different situations when looking for a new horse or pony. They will need to be calm and collected and not fazed by most distractions. At some shows, especially the larger, affiliated competitions, a lot will be going on, including crowds, flags, microphones, music and even tractors and trailers. You want your horse or pony to be cool and focussed on the go round, particularly if a judge has to ride 
 
Luckily it is fairly easy to catch the judge’s eye with a Palomino or Cream Dilutes as they are such striking colours. However it is still important the horse or pony has a nice shiny coat and heathy glow. There’s a plethora of grooming lotions and potions which coupled with a good diet will help bring out a real glorious golden shine. Careful rugging is also key and will really enhance the overall look and finish. 
 
For further information on The British Palomino Society visit the website www.thebritishpalominosociety.co.uk 

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