Rule Books

Equine Canada Rules for Dressage 

If you have any questions at any time, please contact Joanna Crilly, Chair DC Rules Committee at rules@dressagecanada.org or Christine Peters, Manager Dressage at cpeters@equinecanada.ca

IMPORTANT

No More Elimination In Freestyles For Showing Higher Level Movements

There is an error in the rule 9.6 regarding freestyles.  The correct rule appears on the freestyle test sheets and in rule 10.2.8:

A rider performing higher movements than the level called for (clearly forbidden movements) will be penalized by 4 points from the Total Technical Execution for each illegal movement, but not for any recurrences of the same illegal movement.

Judges must be fair by taking into consideration whether the movement was accidental or intentional. Riders should read their level tests carefully to be certain that they are not including higher-level movements.

Bits:

Are copper roller bits allowed? No (ART E4.3)

May I ride in  bitless bridle?  No  (ART E4.2)

May I ride in a bit made of more than one metal? Yes (ART E4.3)

Does my bridoon have to be made of the same metal as my curb bit? No (ART E4.3)
 


Dress:

Am I allowed to use a saddle pad with sparkles on it? No (new ART E4.5.7)

Are plaid shirts allowed? Not unless it is covered by your jacket and stock tie. (ART E4.1.7)

I cannot find 5cm spurs so am I allowed to use 5.5cm spurs? No (ART E4.1.8)
 


Saddlery:

Is a 130cm whip allowed in the warm-up? No (ART E4.7)

My bridle is made of brown plastic.  May I use it in Discovery competitions? Yes, Discovery shows are not bound by EC rules. 

My horse cannot wear shoes that are nailed on.  Can I show him in easy boots? No (ART E4.9.8)
 


Officials:

I hold a medium card and am guest carded up to senior at a competition where riders need scores from a senior judge to qualify for a championship.  Can the riders use my scores? No 

Am I eliminated if I enter the ring after 45 seconds? Yes (ART E9.3.8)