Which of the following terms indicates a dip in the back of a horse?

The term that indicates a dip in the back of a horse is "sway back." This condition, also known as lordosis, is characterized by a pronounced dip or depression along the spine, particularly in the area of the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae. Horses with a sway back may exhibit changes in their posture, with their withers appearing higher than their hindquarters, creating a concave shape along the back.

This condition often results from various factors including age, conformation, and overall physical fitness, particularly in horses that have not developed sufficient muscle tone to support their spine correctly. A sway back may affect a horse's performance and comfort, impacting their ability to carry a rider or engage in certain activities.

In contrast, the other terms refer to different back shapes or conditions. "Roach back" describes a back that is overly convex or rounded, while "short coupled back" refers to a horse with a short distance between the withers and the loins, which may affect balance and stride. A "flat back" indicates a back that is straight without significant curvature, which is generally considered a desirable alignment for many disciplines. Understanding these different shapes contributes to making informed decisions about care, training, and suitability for various riding disciplines.