What might a judge evaluate regarding the animal's movement?

A judge evaluates the animal's movement by looking for characteristics that indicate proper training, health, and overall presentation. The correct gait refers to the specific way an animal moves, which should be natural and appropriate for its breed. The stride length is assessed to determine how freely and comfortably the animal moves, while the overall smoothness of movement reflects the animal's conditioning and ability to maintain balance and poise as it moves. This comprehensive evaluation allows judges to determine how well the animal has been prepared for showing and its potential to perform in competitive settings.

Other elements like speed, while noted during movement, do not encompass the full picture, as a well-trained animal should exhibit control over its movement rather than just speed. Additionally, the age and breed of the animal inform other aspects of the performance but are not direct indicators of movement quality. The handler’s presence is crucial in showmanship but does not directly relate to the technical aspects of movement being evaluated.