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Originally Posted by Danzig188
like i said, lifespan-wise, yes. but equating maturity or actual physical ability? no way. most think a horses reaches it's optimal physical condition at age four, that would make them the equivalent of a twelve year old. no way that would make sense.
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It depends on what type of horses you are talking about. Show jumpers aren't their best until they are age 12-15. I tend to think that racehorses are their best in their 4-6 years depending upon the individual and if they haven't peaked too early. However, we don't get to see a lot of our stars at this age because of injuries. Maybe racehorses are even better in their seven/eight year old years. We don't know because not enough talented horses stay around to be raced at this late age. However, I know of some great steeple chasers that are raced and winning at the highest levels at seven-ten years of age.
A four year old is not done growing yet. My good horse chucker grew a whole another inch his four year old year, and then a half an inch his five year old year. My horse Sis is still getting taller and filling out in her four year old year. She has grown another half an inch this year and her hind end is still higher than her withers. (Horses' hind ends grow faster).