Correlations among morphometric traits, functional performance, and gluteal temperature in the Peruvian Paso horse

The morphometric traits of the Peruvian Paso horse (PPH) constitute a fundamental basis for establishing selection criteria aimed at optimizing functional performance. However, to date, no study has linked traits such as morphometric and gluteal temperature differences with functional performance during the paso gait. The present study aimed to determine the correlations between morphometric traits, functional performance, and gluteal temperature based on the evaluation of 151 individuals for which 35 traits were measured. Total and partial correlations were calculated to assess the relationships among these variables. Correlation analyses were performed using Pearson, Spearman, and Kendall methods, with partial effects controlled through MANCOVA. The results revealed that the PPH’s gait stems from coordinated forelimb–hindlimb neuromuscular control despite lateral-sequence decoupling; key morphometric traits are linked to performance and gluteal thermal patterns, supporting their use in selective breeding; and infrared thermography, combined with morphometric and kinematic data, offers a valuable non-invasive assessment tool advancing evidence-based breeding and management for this breed. This study represents the first comprehensive correlation analysis of the PPH, providing key insights for the selection of individuals with superior functional performance and greater biomechanical efficiency.