Common Horse Breeds In America

Did you know that there are, on average, 450 different breeds of horses and ponies?! If you are interested in a list check out this site. It lists 353 horse breeds and 100 pony breeds in alphabetical order. As I began to look over the list I realised I didn’t know as many horse breeds as I thought I did. 

Knowing your horse breeds isn’t just knowing cool random facts, but is knowledge important for equestrians. Horse’s are truly fascinating and each breed has its own appearance and qualities that make the horse excel in his field. As an equestrian in the horse world, it is important to know the basic breeds for when you’re looking at a new horse or accessing someone else’s horse. Knowing your horse’s breed can help you determine what discipline your horse would be good at. Not to mention the fansication that comes with looking at the diversity of the breeds. I hope you learn a little and enjoy reading about some of the common horse breeds in America! 

American Quarter Horse 

With over three million registered Quarter Horses in the US, you can see that American’s love these intelligent and agile horses. This breed is named after the quarter mile race that took place in Virginia and the Carolinas during the 17th century. These horses are natural sprinters and are known for their quick starts. From 15-16 hands high and being any solid color, these horses have a very muscular build. Quarter Horses are used in racing, rodeos, cattle herding, and for riding.

American Paint Horse 

This breed’s distinctive coat patterns make them easy to spot, not one horse has the same pattern. This affectionate and agile breed continues to grow in popularity. The American Paint Horse Association has over 1 million registered horses. Having a muscular body and strong hindquarters, these horses are used for pleasure and Westren riding. 

American Saddlebred 

Coming in any color, with prominent gaits and animated appearance, Saddlebreds are some of the most glamorous horses in the world! Contrived in the British Isles, this horse is sure to hold his head, and his tail, high! Not only does this horse’s looks make it succeed as a show jumper and dressage horse, but so does its willing attitude and athleticism. 

Appaloosa  

This beautiful breed is known for their spotted coats, which were desired by the American Indians who breed them as the spots camouflaged the horse. They have chestnut, brown, or black spots and are 14-15 hands high. Being on the shorter side and compact, yet with strong legs, these horses make good riding and showing horses, often used in parades. 

Arabian 

One of the most popular breeds in the world, Arabians have greatly influenced the breeding of horses throughout the globe. They have a rich history and pure line. Originating in the deserts of the Middle East, this is the oldest horse breed. These horses have distinct features, are around 14 hands high, and have chesnut, bay, or gray coats. Having large lung capacity and great endurance, these horses are used in a wide variety of disciplines. 

Morgan 

All Morgan’s can trace their lineage back to Figure, a horse born in 1789. Justin Morgan, the horse’s owner recognised the horse’s meritorious qualities of strength, speed, and temperance and thus the Morgan breed was born. A Morgan’s graceful neck, long body, and proud stance is not the only thing that distinguishes this breed. An all around horse, with stamina, strength, and a gentle personality, this horse is used in the show ring and for driving as well as a great horse for any equestrian. 

Miniature Horse 

Often called “minis,” these fun sized, adorable horse’s are very popular in the US for their kind nature and not so intimidating size. Coming in all colors and ranging from 8.5 to 9.5 hands high these horse’s make great companions and are used as therapy and support animals. They look like a shrunken horse and are not as stocky and short-legged as Ponies. They might be too small to ride, but they still participate in shows and are used to pull little wagons. 

Tennessee Walking Horse 

This docile horse takes first place for the smoothest gait in the equine family. *I can testify to the smoothness of a Tennessee Walker’s gait!* Which is why this breed makes an excellent horse for people with knee and back issues. Being no less than 15 hands high, these chestnut, brown, or black horses offer a comfortable ride. They are best known for being able to Flat Walk and Running Walk. Originating in Tennessee, yet commonly used by Southern plantation owners, this horse was bred to have good balance and a smooth gait for long hours in the saddle.  

Thoroughbred

Holding the title for fastest horse in the world, Thoroughbreds were built for speed and endurance. This breed originated in England where Arbian Stallions were mixed with more Oriental blood to produce a faster horse, with a longer stride. These elegant horses came in any solid color and are 15-16 hands high. Their intelligence and athleticism make them excellent for not only racing, but for show jumping, polo, eventing, dressage, and even fox hunting. However, these horses are high strung & spunky and not recommended for first time or young equestrians.

The differences of appearance and traits in the breeds is so neat to learn about and explore! Horses are truly wonderful animals with an interesting history that dates back to the beginning of time. If you have ever owned a horse, you will know that each horse has his own character; however, I think that God placed a spirit of friendliness in every horse.  

Tails & trails,

            Reese