Figure 2 shows the profile lines for the various body condition scores. The profile of BCS 0 and 1, follow the anatomical skeleton and describe stages of emaciation and extremely thin respectfully. A score of 3 has a smooth appearance to the skeletal structure and represents a horse in optimum body condition for maintenance and is neither gaining weight or losing weight. They are in above average flesh but this should not impair their reproductive ability especially if they are being maintained in outdoor housing during the winter. A long hair coat can be misleading.
Some conformational differences make it difficult to apply certain criteria to a specific animal.
However, when properly applied the scoring system is independent of size or conformation of the horse. Easy-keepers include any of the individuals of the draft breeds, ponies and quarter horses. They also include the dominant animals in a herd situation. Hard-keepers will also include the shy individuals who are lower on the pecking order in a herd situation. Score 2.5 - eg.