Hanoverian basic information

Masculinity/Femininity and Typiness
Stallions must have a distinctly masculine bearing and mares a distinctly feminine expression. A horse's type must correspond to the Society's breeding goal.

Conformation
The main part of the body from the chest to the buttocks should fit into a rectangular (not square) frame with all parts harmoniously integrated. Also desired is a noble head with expressive eyes sitting on a well proportioned and well put on neck.; withers that are pronounced and extending far back; sloping shoulders with the angle between the scapula and humerus large and open; a long, broad forearm on a correspondingly short cannon bone; and straight legs. Also preferred is a strong, but not tight back that is well padded in the area of the kidney; a long, well sprung hind rib; and a broad slightly sloping croup. Careful attention is paid to the hindquarters -- their angulation, proportion and joint formation. The hocks must be broad, clear and well defined; the pasterns of all four legs must be of proper slope and length; and the hooves should be well shaped, strong and sound.

Gaits
Movement as seen from the front and the rear must be straight with no paddling, winging or crossing over.

Impulsion and Elasticity
Impulsion must clearly emanate from the hindquarters, traveling through a relaxed back swinging in rhythm with the gait. Movements should be big, yet light and springy.

Walk
The walk must be ground covering, relaxed and regular. Strides must be even and footfalls correct in their sequence -- not lateral or pacing. Freedom of shoulders and haunches and a supple back must be evident.

Overall Impression and Development
As to size, sound judgement should prevail. Horses should be neither excessively large nor too small. In all cases height should be in proportion to the overall build. Harmony is more important than size. A horse's development must be commensurate with its age.