Western Pleasure AQHA 2025

What faults can lead to disqualification?

• Head carried too low and/or clearly behind the vertical excessively and consistently while the horse is in motion

• Horse showing signs of fatigue during the competition

• Rider not wearing appropriate safety gear

• Horse refusing to jump obstacles during the event

A fault scored according to severity

• excessive slowness

• minor delay

• temporary glitch

• slight lag

How should horses be reversed in the ring?

• Horses are to be reversed to the inside (away from the rail).

• Horses should be reversed to the outside (toward the rail).

• Horses can be reversed in any direction.

• Horses should not be reversed at all.

A fault scored according to severity

• stumbling

• slipping

• tripping

• falling

What may judges ask horses to do?

• Lengthen their stride at the walk or lope, one or both ways of the ring.

• Perform a jump over a barrier.

• Gallop in a straight line without stopping.

• Trot in place for a duration.

What must horses demonstrate in the ring?

• Horses must work both ways of the ring at all three gaits to demonstrate their ability with different leads.

• Horses must jump over obstacles to show their agility.

• Horses must trot in a straight line to display their speed.

• Horses must perform a series of spins to exhibit their control.

A fault scored according to severity

• over flexing neck

• under extending back

• excessive twisting torso

• inadequate knee bend

A fault scored according to severity

• horse appears sullen or overly tired

• horse shows excessive energy and enthusiasm

• horse has a shiny and healthy coat

• horse performs tricks on command

A fault scored according to severity

• failure to take the appropriate gait

• excessive speed during a task

• incomplete execution of a procedure

• lack of attention to detail

A fault scored according to severity

• Excessive speed

• Minor delay

• Insufficient resources

• Inadequate training