Choosing The Perfect Breed

There are many different breeds of horses in the world. While each horse is unique and has their own temperament, choosing a specific breed can be very helpful in many cases. For some, they wish to compete in breed shows. Others have had success with one breed and have decided to stick with them. If you're newer to horses, then it can be difficult to find the perfect breed for you!

Finding Your Dream Horse

• First, what is your riding and horse handling experience? Some breeds are known to be great teachers. These include Quarter Horses, Paints, Morgans, draft types like Clydesdales, and many others.
• Consider your size. Are you tall? A pony may work well for children, but not all adults can ride them. A heavier adult may also need a stockier horse.
• What discipline do you ride? Many breeds are versatile and can successfully compete in English and western disciplines. There are, however, breeds that excel in certain ones. For example, Quarter Horses are known for barrel racing, cutting, reining, and other western sports. Thoroughbreds can make exceptional jumpers and eventers, while Tennessee Walking Horses are favored by trail riders.
• Some breeds are known for being more calm, while others tend to be "hot" or more spooky by nature. Endurance riders, for example, often choose Arabians. These horses can travel long distances. They have a certain spunk and energy that is a blast to ride!
• Make sure to look into health concerns for that breed. Appaloosas are at a greater risk for moon blindness. Certain ponies can founder on grass more easily. And there are various genetic diseases like HYPP that affect Quarter Horses. It seems as though every type has something to be aware of.
• What is your budget? Some like Gypsy Vanners and Andalusians can cost buyers a pretty penny.

Choosing a breed of horse can be helpful, but be wry of only focusing on it. It's important to look at the horse as a whole package and consider their age, gender, experience, and temperament.