Horses and Understanding Why We Depend on Them

As horses come in different breeds, it is useful to know which type you are selecting in understanding their various characteristics. Horses can be divided into four groups, and these are crucial in finding out which type is suitable for racing, heavy or light work or just enjoying.

The first is Light Horses which are taller, leaner and the faster of the four breeds. They are ideal for racing, endurance riding and jumping. Examples of this type are Thoroughbred, Arabian and Quarter horse.

The second are Draft Horses which are typically a large, muscular breed designed mostly, in their youth specifically, for heavy work including ploughing fields and pulling carriages. These can be known as gentle giants and include Belgian, Clydesdale and Shire.

The third are Gaited Horses which are adaptable for riding long distances, as they have a unique, smooth gait. They are known for their natural rhythm and grace. These include the Tennessee Walking Horse, Paso Fino and Missouri Fox Trotter.

Then there are ponies which have a naturally sturdy frames and friendly dispositions. They tend to be smaller, under 14.2 hands high, and are popular among novice riders and children. These can include Welsh Pony, Shetland Pony and Haflinger.

Some breeds and their uses

An overview follows of what makes some horses suitable for certain activities. Horse racing is a very popular and thrilling spectacle which has endured for many years. Thoroughbreds are an ideal choice for this sport as it showcases their speed and agility, and they are the prime in the flat racing world. Quarter horses are the first choice for sprint events.

Having a temperament to act, and show off discipline, is essential for dressage events and the type of breed ideal for this can be the Dutch Warmblood, Hanoverian or Oldenburg. They are capable of the grace, precision and strength required to succeed here.

Show jumping requires strength, agility and courage from both horse and rider. Warmbloods again are an ideal choice here, as well as the Irish Sport Horse or the Holsteiner. Thoroughbreds can be adaptable here too.

We breed some horses for work such as ploughing, pulling and logging. This last task is particularly relevant where machinery can’t be effective in restricted locations. Breeds used for this include Belgian, Clydesdale and Percheron.

As the use of horse rugs, careful stabling and work regimes that care for our equine friends has proved, we are helping evolution along its merry way by taking care and nurturing a safe environment for our horses to live and grow in.

The factors that are changing the way horses develop include climate, geography, human involvement and genetics.

Coat thickness has gradually increased in colder countries and horses are being affected by this.

Where landscapes are difficulty to navigate some horses have developed sure-footedness on rocky terrain. Also, the availability of resources is shaping the way horses advance in the environment they are inhabiting.

We have selectively bred certain types of horse for specific tasks, and they have responded by refining their abilities in areas such as endurance and agility. Thoroughbreds have altered genetically to become wonderfully athletic after years of development and breeding.

Understanding the different types of horse breeds is paramount for any equestrian enthusiast. Ultimately, we need to know which breed is suitable for which task and thus we can progress harmoniously with our equine friends into the future and beyond.