Quarter Horses are one of the most popular horse breeds in the United States. The American Quarter Horse Association, the official breed registry, was founded in 1940. Since then, the association has registered more than 6 million horses.
Most people think of the Thoroughbred when it comes to speed and racing, but the Quarter Horse earned its name because of its ability to outrun other horse breeds in ¼-mile races, with some running at speeds up to 55 mph.
The breed’s racing roots trace back to Colonial America, when farmers seeking faster horses began crossing Spanish Barbs from the Chickasaw Nation with Colonial English stock. English draft-type stock, Thoroughbreds, and Mustangs also influence the Quarter Horse’s genetics.
What Are Quarter Horses Good At?
The Quarter Horse excels in a wide variety of timed events, from team roping to barrel racing, tie-down roping, and steer wrestling, with many ranking as the top mounts at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. Beyond timed events, the Quarter Horse is the preferred breed for working ranchers in the United States. Known for their hardiness and catlike reflexes, these horses are the go-to choice for working cattle and traversing vast rangelands.
In addition to speed, the Quarter Horse is a favorite breed because of its versatility, athleticism, and trainability. They are famous for their friendly disposition and willingness to please and excel in many competitive riding disciplines ranging from Western pleasure to hunter events, reining, cutting, dressage, driving, and more. They are also popular companions for recreational and trail riding.
Because of their temperament, Quarter Horses are suitable partners for riders of all experience levels. They often participate in equine-assisted activities and therapies, as well as Equestrians With Disabilities classes. Quarter Horses have even lived at the White House! In 1956, the AQHA gifted President Dwight Eisenhower two horses named Doodle De Do and Sporty Miss.
How To Identify a Quarter Horse
Known for their compact and sturdy build, most Quarter Horses measure between 14 and 16 hands tall and weigh an average of 950 to 1,200 pounds. Their coat can be one of 17 AQHA-recognized horse colors, including the common reddish sorrel and bay, roan, dun, buckskin, gray, grullo, perlino, cremello, and white.
The breed can also have a variety of white markings on their face and legs. There are limits, however, to how much white covers these areas for official registration.
Buying a Quarter Horse
Ready to buy a Quarter Horse? If you’re new to owning horses, ask a friend who knows about horses to assist or enlist the help of a professional horse trainer. With their knowledge and guidance, you can find a horse that fits your budget, riding ability, and riding goals.
Once you’ve found a horse you like, spend a lot of time getting to know him. Ask him to do the things you want to do with him once you buy him. It’s also a good idea to have a veterinarian perform a prepurchase examination to rule out any potential illnesses or lameness concerns.
Related: The 10 Best Horse Breeds for Beginners
Katie Navarra Bradley is a writer and author who covers horses, agriculture, and sustainability. She also partners with horses to deliver equine-assisted business and leadership coaching.
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