>>>> All horses *can* buck, but stock horses buck more than gaited horses >>>> which is due to the conformational differences that make it easier for >>>> stock horses (not as easy for gaited horses) to buck. Gaited horses >>>> might tend to run or bolt instead of buck.
I don't argue that - in fact, my gut tells me there's something to it...but WHY? Any studies to support this, or is it anecdotal? I wonder because I don't remember Mac (TWH) EVER even pretending to buck under saddle, but Holly, also a TWH would, and could, buck pretty well. I still see Holly buck in the pasture occasionally, and she's 23. Mac was a much heavier-bodied horse than Holly, but he was also much more lateral...? I occasionally see my adult Icelandic's buck in the pasture, but bucking, as a rule, just doesn't seem to be the breed's first choice, in play or in showing displeasure. Janice: I don't think Tivar is typical - I saw him buck at liberty more than any other Icelandic I can think of. Karen Thomas, NC
