What is indicative of a horse with a short, quick, choppy stride?

A horse with a short, quick, choppy stride is typically characterized by specific conformational traits that affect its movement. Short steep pasterns and straight shoulders are indicative of this type of stride. When the pasterns are short and steep, they contribute to limited flexibility and an inability to absorb shock, leading to a choppy movement rather than a smooth, flowing gait. Additionally, straight shoulders can restrict the horse's range of motion in the front legs, further contributing to a choppy stride.

In contrast, options that describe long, flowing gaits with extended reach would suggest a horse with a longer, more efficient stride, and deep chests with long backs generally imply a horse built for more fluid movement. Flat feet with a wide stance could indicate other issues but do not specifically align with the characteristics of a choppy stride. Thus, the attributes associated with short steep pasterns and straight shoulders aptly describe the mechanics of a horse exhibiting a quick, choppy gait.