The famous equestrian Amber Senti once said: “The horse, with beauty unsurpassed, strength immeasurable and grace unlike any other, still remains humble enough to carry a man upon his back.”
In ancient times, they’ve been worshiped as well. Horses are beautiful majestic creatures. Humans have had a strong fascination with horses ever since they were domesticated about 6000 years ago. All these years, horses have been used for traveling, wars, pulling carriages and carrying loads from one place to another. Nowadays, most people tend to keep horses as domestic animals or pets and use them for sports like polo and racing.
Horses have about 350 breeds spread all over the world. Some horses excel in sports while others are better as workhorses. Different breeds are used for different purposes. Here is a list of some of the most popular horse breeds. Let’s take a look.
Arabian Horse
An Arabian horse is one of the oldest breeds, originating in the Middle East. It has a strong and sturdy body which can easily survive hot weather conditions. In the earlier times, they were used by the Arabs to travel across deserts. Their bodies are relatively smaller than most riding horses but they are quite athletic. Arabian horses have a sleek silky fur all over. They are loving, loyal and intelligent animals. Beginners might face challenges dealing with these horses.
Characteristics
- Height: 14 to 16 hands
- Weight: 360 to 450 kg
- Colors: gray, bay, roan, chestnut, black
- Lifespan: 30 years
Thoroughbred Horse
The English Thoroughbred horses were first imported to England in the early 18th century. Their athletic body comprises a deep chest, a small back and a fine small head supported by a long neck. Their hind legs are slightly longer than the front ones which helps them run at around 40 miles per hour. These horses are high-spirited and powerful. They are mostly used for jumping and horse racing. They are not the best horses for beginners though. Only trained people are advised to keep them.
Characteristics
- Height: 15 to 17 hands
- Weight: 450 to 545 kg
- Colors: gray, bay, brown, chestnut, black
- Lifespan: 25 to 35 years
Ponies
Ponies are basically mini-horses but differ in their characteristics. Their bodies are smaller than that of a normal horse but they are full of strength. They can pull heavy carts effortlessly. Ponies are lazy creatures which like to graze in the fields and rest all day long. Unlike regular horses, they hate working. They are intelligent but stubborn. Ponies make great riding horses for children. Their thick manes help them to survive cold temperatures.
Characteristics
- Height: 12.2 to 14.2 hands
- Weight: 200 to 350 kg
- Colors: chestnut, black, brown
- Lifespan: 25 to 30 years
American Quarter Horse
American Quarter Horse is a popular American breed which first originated in Spain and Britain in the 1600s. Due to their calm, friendly and loyal nature, these horses are a favourite among many people. These horses have a stunning appearance. They have small heads, deep chest and muscular bodies. They have a straight profile. Quarter horses make themselves useful in racing and pulling carts. They are easy to train and are a good choice to keep as a family pet.
Characteristics
- Height: 14.3 to 16 hands
- Weight: 430 to 545 kg
- Colors: brownish red, roan, gray
- Lifespan: 25 years (sometimes longer)
Appaloosa
An appaloosa can be recognized by its unique skin. It has splotches of different shapes over its skin. Appaloosas have a compact muscular body and striped hooves. They have a friendly and a gentle nature. They are loyal to their riders and owners. Appaloosas should be protected from harsh sunlight as it can damage their skin. They are used for pleasure riding. They are a fantastic choice for people of all ages and experience.
Characteristics
- Height: 14 to 15 hands
- Weight: 430 to 545 kg
- Colors: chestnut, roan, bay, gray, brown, black
- Lifespan: 30 years
Friesian Horse
Originating in the Netherlands and Germany, Friesian horses are truly elegant. Their body structure is heavy and sturdy. They have an arched neck and a thick glossy mane. All these physical characteristics give them a sleek and graceful appearance. They maintain a good temperament. Friesians are gentle in nature but have prominent athletic qualities. They can be used as workhorses, for sports and recreational purposes. Friesians make great domestic animals but are high-maintenance.
Characteristics
- Height: 14.2 to 17 hands
- Weight: 590 kg
- Colors: black, white, chestnut
- Lifespan: 16 years
Clydesdale Horse
These horses got their name from River Clyde in Scotland. The Clydesdale horse owes its magnificence and royalty to its sturdy structure and long silky featherings around its legs. It has a long arched neck and a broad forehead. Despite their large size, they are gentle and easygoing. Clydesdales are strong, calm and easy to train. Earlier, they were commonly used to pull family carriages. These days, they are used less for work and more for leisure. Clydesdales are used as therapy horses as well.
Characteristics
- Height: 16 to 18 hands
- Weight: 725 to 1090 kg
- Colors: bay, black, gray, chestnut, roan
- Lifespan: 20 to 25 years
Andalusian Horse
The history of Andulasian horses goes back a thousand years. As the name suggests, they originated in Spain in the province of Andalusia. These horses are highly athletic, graceful and agile. Andalusian horses have a long flowing mane which adds more beauty to their compact body. They make a pleasurable ride. They are mostly used for the common Spanish sport, bullfighting.
Characteristics
- Height: 15.1 hands
- Weight: 405 to 500 kg
- Colors: gray, bay, black
- Lifespan: 25 years
Paint Horse
The paint horses are highly popular because of their colorful patterned fur coats. They have a strong body and excel in every sport. A paint horse has strong hind legs which allows it to maintain a good balance. Intelligence, athleticism and friendliness are some of its common traits. Paint horses can run at high speeds which makes them useful for sports, work and transportation.
Characteristics
- Height: 14 to 16 hands
- Weight: 430 to 545 kg
- Colors: bay, black, chestnut
- Lifespan: 30 years
Morgan Horse
One of the most versatile horse breeds, Morgan horse originated in the United States. Morgan horses have large captivating eyes and a proud gait. Due to their athletic bodies, they have multiple uses. Pulling carts, plowing fields, transportation, riding, racing or jumping, Morgan horses can do it all. They are loyal, affectionate and easy to train. They are a real people pleaser.
Characteristics
- Height: 14 to 15 hands
- Weight: 405 to 455 kg
- Colors: bay, black, chestnut
- Lifespan: 30 years
These were some of the famous and most-known horse breeds in the world. If you are interested in buying horses online, visit OLX Pakistan’s website.
We have tried to shortlist some of the most friendly and popular horse breeds for you. We hope this list was helpful! Which horse breed did you like the most and why? Let us know in the comment section below.
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