Wow! Cool pro pic! :)

Here is a formula if it will help to give you a guideline
Measuring a horse's cannon bone is used by some in determining the approximate weight a horse can carry. A measurement is taken around the circumference of the foreleg, just below the knee. Add together the weight of the horse plus the rider and tack, and divide this sum by the cannon bone circumference measurement. Then divide that result by two. A number between 75 and 85 is good. If the number is over 85, you probably need a larger horse. Using this method, I measure the circumference of the horse's cannon bone and get 7.5 inches. The body weight of the horse is 1,150 pounds and the rider and gear weigh 235 pounds for a total combined weight of 1,350 pounds. Divide 1,350 (total combined weight) by 7.5 (cannon bone) and I get roughly 185. Divide 185 in half and my final resulting number is 93. Using this calculating method, I either need to lighten my gear or get a larger horse to get the number down to around 85.

Some horse and rider guidelines where carrying weight is concerned:
# Pick a horse with bigger cannon bones, wider loins, shorter back

# Avoid using heaving saddles and only carry necessary gear

# Make sure the horse is conditioned for the type of riding you doing

# Keep proper riding posture and balance

# Give the horse a break on longer rides - get off a while and let your horse rest

# Avoid riding in areas where footing is not desirable - such as mud, deep sand, asphalt

# Avoid letting the horse trot or canter

The maximum weight a horse can safely carry does vary by the breed of the horse and how hard it's worked. There is no absolute rule about how much weight a horse can carry, but generally speaking the lighter-framed the horse the less he can carry. A well conditioned horse or a stout horse can generally carry more. Some breeds are bred to carry heavier weights like the Quarter Horse, Arabian or Icelandic Pony. Riders with good balance also make weight load less of a problem.

Hi there!
Teddy is my 9 year-old Friesian. I've had him almost since he was imported from the Netherlands. We're learning dressage together. He is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime horse.
Fabulous photos, by the way.

wow some amazing photos, and some gorgeous horses.

Hey PJ, I'm so glad you actually recieved the Birthday Wish, it was sincerely meant!!
And LUCKY You for just getting High Speed Internet!! .. I'm envious!! ..lol
...hmmmm.... I was just looking at your profile ...
I hope you'll add to it when you feel comfortable doing so ... (just my opinion maybe, but )...
knowing a wee bit more about a person allows the Barnmice family to more easily get aquainted!!
This is a Great Community / extended horsey Family!!
.. again, Welcome PJ!! :-)
( feel free to add me as a friend if you like )
~ Barby