Horse Breeds
Introduction to Horse Breeds
| It is said that the first domestication of horses occurred in central Asia. Between 3000 and 4000 B.C. horses were generally kept for milk and meat, but as time passed and man needed to become more mobile, horses were then used as pack animals. Then in the Middle East at around 4000 B.C. horses were being used for plowing the fields for agriculture. Later on horses were being used on sleds that were mounted with rollers, which then became wheels. Various breeds of horses started to be used in warfare by the 3 rd millennium B.C. |  |
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The word “breed” is mentioned all the time when it comes to horses. To define the word, a breed is a group of horses distinct enough by appearance to be categorized together and when inter-mated produce offspring of the same appearance. |
Each breed has its own characteristics such as temperament, speed, size, color, tail carriage and the list goes on. From these qualities certain breeds are chosen for specific uses. Thus some horse breeds are used for racing because of their great speed, and other horses breeds are more suitable for equestrian, working horses, show horses and for recreational purposes.
Following are some well-known horse breeds and a brief description of each.
Arabian Horse
| The Arabian Horse is one of the oldest horse breeds in the world. From the ancient deserts of the Middle East evolved a breed of incredible stamina, outstanding intelligence and great disposition. Such qualities help the Arabian Horse excel in all equine events and activities especially when it comes to endurance events; the Arabian is known to be the undisputed champion. |  |
Arabian Horses have refined, wedge-shaped heads, a broad forehead, large eyes, large nostrils, small muzzles and naturally high tail carriage. With these characteristics, Arabian Horses are pretty easy to distinguish.
Quarter Horse
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The Quarter Horse is believed to be the world’s fastest breed over short distances. It was originally bred for sprinting in races of a quarter of a mile or less and has been clocked at 55 mph. Quarter Horses are the most popular breeds in the U.S.A. and have the biggest breed society with over 3.2 million Quarter Horses registered worldwide. This horse breed is best known today as a race horse, ranch horse, rodeo competitor, show horse as well as a family horse. Identifiable characteristics include keen cow sense, a gentle nature, heavy muscling, sprinter's speed and versatility. |
Wild Horse
| The true Wild Horse is a member of the Horse genus that was never successfully domesticated. Two species or subspecies of wild horses survived into the modern times: the Przewalski’s Horse (or Mongolian Wild Horse) and the Tarpan (or Eurasian Wild Horse). |  |
The later unfortunately became extinct in 1875, however the Przewalski’s Horse is still found today but is considered to be an endangered species. These horses exist naturally as wild animals just like tigers and wolfs do.
Miniature Horse
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As the name predicts, the Miniature Horse is quiet small in size – less than 38 inches (or 34 inches, depending on the registry involved). This breed of horse is found all around the world and comes in a variety of coat patterns and colors. |
Because of their friendly disposition and ability to get along well with adults and children, Miniature Horses make the best companion animals and family pets. They are also coached to be service animals for people with disabilities. Miniature horses are resilient and live on average one-third more than a full-size horse.
Paint Horse
| Descending from the herds of wild horses that roamed the Western deserts and plains, the Paint Horse became the favorite amongst cowboys when domesticated. Native Americans valued the Paint for its great working ability, good heart and intelligence. Today the Paint Horse makes a brilliant breed for racing, ranch work, rodeo, trail riding, showing and pleasure riding. |  |
The most distinguishing trait would be their colorful coats which come in an endless variety of patterns comprising of a combination of white and any typical horse color. Interestingly, no two horses are exactly alike in coat pattern.
Mustang Horse
Known to be a tough and strong free-roaming breed, the Mustang Horse is often referred to as a wild horse. Words used to describe a wild horse would be fast, flexible, hardy and independent.
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Having said that, this is why the name “Mustang” is usually chosen for high-performance products and sports mascots. The Mustang horse breed comes in all sizes, shapes and types of build. The most common color seen is sorrel and bay, but any color is possible. |
Friesian Horse
| The Friesian Horse originated in Fries land, one of twelve provinces of the Netherlands, Holland. From records of the past, it is known that this breed of horse has always been famous. The breed is legendary for its fast, high-stepping trot and its enthusiastic, energetic nature which can also be docile and calm. A Friesian has great presence, holding its head high and proud with an arching neck. They are always black in color and have a long, thick, flowing mane and tail along with distinctive fetlock hair. |  |
