I have ridden and owned a lot of different horse breeds over my almost 18 years, but Missouri Fox Trotters have always been one of my favorites. Their friendly demeanor and smooth gait has enthralled numerous equestrians. If you gaze out at my pasture you will see two Missouri Fox Trotters: Coconut and my cousin’s horse Mocha. These two beauties as well as my own love for the breed inspired today’s post. For starters, this popular & versatile breed and my Blog have something in common: the Ozarks!
1. Unsurprising Origins
Okay, so maybe this isn’t “fascinating” considering it’s literally in the breed name, but Missouri Fox Trotters originated in Missouri. The early pioneers needed a horse that was strong enough for farm work, smart enough to wrangle cattle, and fashionable enough to ride into town as well as able to navigate the rocky, hilly terrain of the Ozarks. *Having lived in the Ozarks my entire life, I can definitely say that we have no shortage of rocks or hills!* In 2002 the Missouri Fox Trotter Horse was named the official state horse of Missouri. Even though these horses are used all over the world for a number of different purposes and disciplines, their home base is still in their origin State.
2. MFTHBA
The Missouri Fox Trotter Horse Breed Association‘s world headquarters is in Ava, MO less than an hour from my home! I have seen the impressive amount of barns and showrings on the grounds, but have never attended any events including their Show and Celebration every September which was first held in 1959. It features over 130 classes, competition for the World Grand Champion title, organized trail rides, and audiences from all over the world. This September 4th-10th will commence the 64th annual celebration. Other than breed registration, the association also has a Youth Association, National Trail Ride Program, and much more.
3. A Gaited Horse With A Special Trot
Missouri Fox Trotters are gaited horses with three distinct gaits: the flat foot walk which is four beats, a broken three-beat canter, and the renowned fox trot. The fox trot is a broken, diagonal gait with a distinctive rhythm distinguishable from nose to hooves. The gait is created when the horse moves its front foot a second before its opposite rear foot. The horse is in contact with the ground at all times resulting in a smooth gait or as I have heard fellow Fox Trotter owners put it: smooth enough to drink a cup of coffee while riding. A horse that is fox trotting correctly will never have more than two feet off the ground at any given time and will shake (or bob) its head in corresponding rhythm. The diagonal nature of this gait gives the Fox Trotter the surefootedness appreciated by equestrians.
More Horsey Posts: Common Horse Breeds in America
4. A Beginner Friendly Breed; Great for Trail Riding
One reason equestrians love Missouri Fox Trotters is because they are ideal for beginners and children. Their gentle disposition and smooth gait also makes them excellent trail horses. According to the MFTHBA 90% of Missouri Fox Trotters are used by their owners for trail riding. *I enjoy riding my Fox Trotter on the trail and around the barn. My 11 year old sister and 13 year old cousin are able to enjoy their Fox Trotters who live up to the gentleness and versatility boasted by the breed.* Missouri Fox Trotters are surefooted and intelligent making them more than just great for pleasure lessons and trail adventures; they are used by endurance riders, hunters, ranchers, and even by National Forestry Service rangers.
5. Coat of Many Colors
Something truly fascinating about Missouri Fox Trotters is that they can be any & every color! From bay or chestnut to patterns like piebald or skewbald, it’s basically like shopping on Amazon. When you click on some products you get two or three color options, but if you were to click on “Missouri Fox Trotter” you could scroll endlessly through the available colors. Fascinating!
Tails & Trails,
Reese
*This information was found on the official MFTHBA website
I enjoyed reading this post, Reese. Having a MFT in my backyard, I can definitely attest to the many positive attributes of the breed. Glad you and your family are having fun with them too!
Yes! I always enjoy seeing your MFT in pictures on your blog as well as the rest of your herd.?
Missouri Fox Trotter is my love. I am so happy that my first horse was a horse of this breed. Their mellow attitudes and steady steps are really ideal for new riders.