Breeds of Horse

Thriving for millions of years, the bloodlines of Mr. Ed, Black Beauty, and Secretariat are represented by the more than 350 different breeds of horse known today. When it comes to grouping the jumpers, trotters, and farm workers scattered across the globe, horse breeds fall into four main categories. Some are classified as "light" when they possess small bones and weigh less than 1,300 pounds. Usually these breeds become riding horses and are seen in thoroughbreds and Arabians.

"Draft" horses (also referred to as "heavy") may weigh up to 2,000 pounds, displaying solid legs and large bones. Clydesdales and Percherons are examples of this type of working horse. "Ponies" measure less than 60 inches tall and are much smaller than horses. Shetlands and Haflingers are placed into this category. When a horse, such as a Mustang, is wild or semi-wild – they are called "feral." To get a clearer picture on the versatile nature of international horse breeds, a few notable examples are listed below:

Andalusian: The ancestry of this horse is traced to Iberia and the Carthusian Monks of the late Middle Ages. The Andalusian is often white and light gray (and sometimes bay) in color. An abundant tail and mane accompany small ears, massive chests, clean legs, and high energy.

Appaloosa: Spots and stretches of color decorate the coat of the Appaloosa, which is known for its jumping, endurance, and gentle disposition. With a French and Asian heritage, this horse is now known to make a rather remarkable family pet.

Arabian: The large flaring nostrils and small teacup muzzle are glaring characteristics associated with the Arabian horse breed, which also display an elegant arched neck and broad chest. While solid black is often linked to the breed, Arabians come in gray, bay, roan, and chestnut.

Clydesdale: The horses infamous for a variety of popular television commercials represent a rather majestic heavy draft horse breed, whose name is connected to a district in Scotland. The most common color of the horse is bay, but black-, brown-, and chestnut specimens exist. A unique feature of the horse includes the thick hooves decorated with shaggy tufts of hair.

Holsteiner: About 750 years ago, a northern province in Germany set out to systematically breed the Holsteiner horse, which became a breed known for its strength and reliability. During wartime, the horse proved its courage and agility, but has since become a great sporting horse.

Icelandic: More than 11 centuries ago, the Icelandic horse breed was born. Joining their standard walk, trot, and canter, the horses possesses what is called a "tolt," – a "running walk" comparable to the American Saddlebred. An interesting fact concerning this breed is their lack of disease, as the Icelandic government, which requires the sole use of fresh, unused horse equipment, enforces strict rules regarding the horses.

Jutland: In Denmark, the Jutland serves as Denmark's version of the heavy horse. With a history dating back to before the Middle Ages, the horse is medium in size, offering quick movement. The coat is generally chestnut with a flaxen mane and tail. Additional features include a round body, deep girth, and massive quarters.

As you further explore the beauty and nature of each horse breed, you will encounter great specimens, including the Arab blood line of the Lipizzaner; the extremely hard-working Mongolian horse of China; the free-loving Mustang of western United States; the internationally respected Palomino; and the exceptionally speedy Russian Trotter. In the end, a glaring uniqueness associated with international breeds of horse seems to never-end with fascinating facts, exciting histories, and lovable characters.

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