Evaluation of Similarities, Differences and Associations of Arabian Horses Based on Phenotypic Morphometric Measurements, Gender and Hoof Diseases in Bauchi and Maiduguri

The value of the Arabian horse is largely associated with their external conformation and the hooves are one of the most indispensable features which decide on the horse’s value. They play a fundamental role in Arabian horses, absorbing concussion, averting skids and shielding the sensitive parts of the digit. Therefore, the objective of this study is to use two way clustering of Arabian horses based on location, gender, diseases of the hoof using phenotypic morphometric measurements to determine the similarities, and differences between the variables. To evaluate prominent accounting principal components for the occurrence of hoof diseases associated with each variable using principal component analysis. Thirty Arabian horses were used for this study, fifteen Arabian horses each from Bauchi and Maiduguri were randomly selected comprising of nine [9] mares and twenty one [21] stallions of  various ages (mean 14.5 years ± 0.7 SE; range 5-20 years) and body weight (306 kg ± 11.04 SE; range 170–414 kg). Phenotypic morphometric measurements were obtained using a measuring stick, tailor’s tape and body weight measuring tape. Ages were determined from the information given by horse owners and dentition formula. Cluster analysis of Arabian horses from Bauchi and Maiduguri based on gender, locations and hoof diseases were classified into four clusters in relation to their phenotypic morphometric measurements to disclose the similarities and differences between the variables. The phenotypic morphometric measurements are all closely associated with the occurrences of the hoof diseases as divulged by the principal component analysis. In conclusion, regular trimming, shoeing and proper care of horses by horse raiders irrespective of the horse discipline or usage can protect the menace of hoof derangements. Key Words: Phenotypic morphometric measurements, hoof Diseases, location, gender, similarities, associations