Weight Bearing

(Page 73): Mules and donkeys can carry proportionately more weight than a horse of the same size. However, be careful about making broad generalizations. It is commonly believed that an equine should be able to carry 10% of his body weight, but if a 1000 lb. unconditioned animal is carrying the 100 pounds as expected, it could still be very difficult for him. An equine of any type that is not in good postural condition is not going to be able to carry as much weight effectively and efficiently as one that is conditioned properly. Longears can generally carry more weight than a horse because of his unique longer, rather than bulk, muscle structure, but the same still holds true. The rider with better balance and riding ability is going to be easier for the equine to carry than rider who is not balanced. The size of the equine and the proportion of the equine to the rider will also affect balance and carrying ability. Conformational abnormalities will also have a profound effect. If he has any deviations in his bone structure (i.e. crooked legs), it can compromise how he moves and put undue stress on certain areas depending on the defect. If his gait is stilted and he cannot move smoothly and freely, the load is too heavy. Fitting saddles can become an issue as your equine changes shape with conditioning, so it is best to fit the saddle or harness when you equine is in good condition. For more about weight bearing and conditioning your equine properly for enhanced performance, check out my book, Training Mules and Donkeys.