DK Pocket Genius - Horses

Pocket Genius
Horses
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First American Edition, 2013
This edition published in the United States in 2016 by
DK Publishing, 345 Hudson Street, New York, New York 10014
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contents
4 The horse
6 Colors
8 Markings
10 Evolution
12 The horse family
14 The domestic horse
16 Work horses
18 Sport horses
20 Gaits
22 Behavior and communication
26 Ponies
28 What is a pony?
30 Ponies
60 light horses
62 What is a light horse?
64 Light horses
122 heavy horses

124 What is a heavy horse?
126 Heavy horses
138 tyPes
140 Types
146 Famous horses

148 All about horses
150 Glossary
152 Index
156 Acknowledgments
Scales and sizes

This book contains scale drawings
of horses to show how tall they are.
A horse’s height is measured in hands. 6 ft
One hand is equal to 4 in (10.16 cm). (1.8 m)
The measurement is taken from a horse’s
feet to the top of its shoulders (withers).
4 | HORSES
The horse
Horses are grazing animals that are naturally adapted to run fast and
have good endurance. These qualities led humans to domesticate
horses thousands of years ago, breeding them to do specific jobs.
Today, horses are also bred to produce animals with
particular features, colors, and characteristics.
Long
muzzle Withers ( highest Vertebral
contains point of shoulders) column (spine)
continually
growing
teeth
Shoulder
blade
Ribs protect
heart and lungs
Anatomy Hindquarters
Although horses come in different sizes, Belly (area above hind legs)
shapes, and colors, they all have the
same basic skeleton. A horse’s back is Foreleg Hind leg
straight, strong, and fairly rigid, making
Knee
it suitable for riding and carrying heavy
loads. A horse does not have any muscles Cannon (bone
below its knees and hocks. This saves between knee
and fetlock)
energy, giving the animal better endurance.
It has a single-toed hoof on each leg. A
Hoof (foot Fetlock
horse’s height is measured in hands—
of horse)
one hand is 4 in (10.16 cm).
THE HORSE | 5
Girth ( circumference
measure behind withers
around body’s lowest part) Conformation
The proportions and shape of a horse’s skeleton,
as well as its muscle development, are together
known as its conformation. This varies with every
breed and makes certain horses suitable for certain
kinds of work. For example, the conformation
of a horse that does heavy farmwork is usually
different from that of a horse used for riding.
ConformaTional faulTs
Some horses may have faults in their conformation, which may make
The Thoroughbred
has the perfect them more likely to suffer from back injuries, lameness, or other problems.
conformation
for speed
A sway back is when Cow hocks occur

there is a distinct dip when the lower
in the spine behind the hind legs slope
withers, giving the horse outward due to
Thigh a U-shaped back. closely set hocks.
bone
When the forelegs

are farther apart at
Hock the hooves than
(joint on at the chest, it can
hind leg) cause the horse to
throw one, or both, A horse with pigeon In splay feet, the
of its legs forward toes has inward- front hooves point
and to the side as it pointing hooves, outward. When
moves. This type of which damage the the horse moves,
movement is known joints in the legs. its fetlocks strike
as dishing. each other.
6 | HORSES
Colors
Horses’ coats come in a variety of colors. Some breeds
have specific colors, while others have a range of colors.
Most breeds retain the same coat color all their life, but a
few develop new colors as they grow old. The Lipizzaner, for
example, is born black but gradually turns gray as it ages.
Coat colors
Coat colors may be solid (of a single color),
solid but with a different colored mane and
tail, part-colored (any coat with white
patches), or spotted.
A golden brown Liver sorrel

coat, mane, and tail is the darkest
is called sorrel. shade of sorrel.
Gray is black skin with a mixture

of white and black hair.
A black and white horse is

piebald. A horse that is any Flea-bitten is a gray
other color, such as brown, coat with brown
and white is skewbald. specks of hair.
COLORS | 7
APPALOOSA
Appaloosa coloring, also known
as spotted coloring, has five main
coat patterns: blanket (white coloring on the hips,
with or without spots); leopard (a white coat with dark
egg-shaped spots); snowflake (spots all over the body,
concentrated on the hips); frost (white specks on a dark
coat); and marble (a red or blue roan coat, with dark
Leopard
edges and a frost pattern in the middle). A number coat pattern
of other breeds also have spotted patterning.
Blue roan is a black Red roan is a bay or Black means Brown is a mixed
or black-brown coat bay-brown coat with the coat, mane, black and brown
with white hair, which white hair, which gives tail, and limbs are coat with a black
gives it a bluish tinge. it a red tinge. all black. mane, tail, and limbs.
Bay is a reddish brown Dun is a brown-gray Palomino is a golden, Dapple gray is

to dark golden coat, coat, ranging from yellow, or tan coat, a gray coat with
with a black mane, tail, yellow to blue-gray, with a pale yellow or rings of dark hair,
and lower limbs. all on black skin. white mane and tail. called dapples.
8 | HORSES
Markings
Most horses are not a single color, but have a variety of
markings. These may be natural markings on the face,
hooves, and legs, or acquired markings, such as brand
and freeze marks, given to them by their owner.
Face markings
Horses often have white markings of
various shapes on their face. Some Blaze
common face markings are a star (a
star-shaped marking between or just
above the eyes); a blaze (a wide strip
down the middle of the face); and a
stripe (a narrow strip down the middle
of the face). Some horses have a snip
(a small strip on the muzzle, between
the nostrils) or a white face (white Star
hair covering almost the entire face).
White face Snip Stripe

MARKINGS | 9
Primitive markings Dorsal

stripe
Dun-colored horses
often have a dark stripe
stretching from their withers
to their tails. They may
have retained this feature
from their early ancestors.
Dun horses may also
Pastern Sock Stocking have horizontal striping
on their lower legs, known
Leg markings as zebra bars.
Many horses have markings on one or
more of their legs. There are two main
types: a sock, in which white hair covers the Zebra
fetlock and part of the cannon bone; and a bars
stocking, in which white hair covers the legs
from the hoof to the knee or hock. A pastern
is a white marking just above the hoof.
ACQUIRED MARKINGS
A freeze mark is a
unique identification
mark made using an
iron cooled in liquid
nitrogen. This kills the
pigment in the horse’s
Dark Light
hair, turning it white.
Hoof colors A brand can also

be applied to indicate
Usually, a horse with white hair above
ownership or the
the hoof has a light hoof, while one with
breed of an animal.
dark hair has a dark hoof. Some hooves It is made by using a
have vertical stripes. hot iron, which burns
the mark on the skin
of the horse.
10 | HORSES
Evolution
Modern horses have evolved over millions of years from animals
that were very different. Their earliest known ancestor, Hyracotherium,
was a browsing animal (one that eats leaves and fruits) that lived
in forests 55 million years ago (mya). Modern horses are grazing
(grass-eating) animals whose natural habitat is grasslands.
Merychippus (25–20 mya)

Evolution was a grass-eating horse.
This illustration shows some important Although it had three toes,
stages in the evolution of the horse. As it ran only on its central toe.
the horse evolved from being a browser Aside from this, it looked like
a modern horse.
to a grazer, its cheek teeth became
broader and grew continually, since they Miohippus
were constantly being worn down. The (32–25 mya) marked
the point where horses
muzzle became longer to hold the teeth.
started to diversify.
It had a longer skull
Mesohippus and limbs than
(37–32 mya) had previous horses.
Hyracotherium three-toed hooves,
(55–45 mya) was a with the central toe
browsing woodland bearing most of
animal no bigger the weight.
than a large dog.
It had four toes on
its front feet and
three on the back.
Hyracotherium Mesohippus Miohippus Merychippus

16 in (40 cm) 24 in (60 cm) 30 in (75 cm) 35 in (90 cm)
EVOLUTION | 11
Evolution of thE hoof

Hyracotherium had four toes on its front legs,
although only three bore its weight. Over time,
the number of toes reduced until, around 15 million
years ago, the first single-toed horses evolved.
Having just a single toe made the leg lighter as
it requires fewer muscles, which improved the
horse’s endurance. Longer limbs increased
the horse’s stride length, making it faster. Hyracotherium Merychippus Equus
Pliohippus Equus (5 mya–present)

(12–6 mya) bore is the scientific name for all
its weight on its modern horses, including
central toe. Its other this domesticated horse.
toes had almost It has a single toe.
disappeared.
Pliohippus Equus
4 ft (1.22 m) 4½–5 ft (1.4–1.5 m)
12 | HORSES
The horse family

Horses have several
close relatives, including
Mountain zebra
wild animals such as
zebras, and domestic
ones such as mules
and donkeys.
Together, they form
the Equidae family and
are known as equids.
Zebras
Zebras have a distinctive coat pattern of
black and white stripes, which is unique
to each zebra. There are three modern
species of the zebra—the plains zebra,
the mountain zebra, and the Grévy’s zebra.
Unlike horses, zebras have never been
successfully domesticated.
Onagers
There are several other species of
wild equid, including the onager.
Native to the Middle East and central
and south Asia, it is smaller than
domesticated horses but has longer
ears. It has a straight back, wispy tail,
and thin legs.
Onager
THE HORSE FAMILY | 13
Donkey
Descended from wild
equids, the donkey has
now been domesticated.
It has great strength and stamina,
and it is often used for herding and
farmwork and to carry heavy
Donkey loads over long distances.
Mules and
hinnies
Mules and hinnies
are produced by crossing horses
and donkeys. A mule is the product of a
mare (female horse) and a male donkey,
while a hinny is the product of a stallion
(male horse) and a jenny (female donkey).
These crossbreeds are mainly used Mule
for carrying goods.
Domestic
horse
Domesticated horses
Wild horses were domesticated 6,000 years
ago in Asia and eastern Europe. They were
bred by humans for specific purposes, including
heavy work such as plowing and sports such
as racing. Horses used in farming and industrial
work are generally called work horses. They are
typically stronger and of a heavier build than sport
horses, which are lighter, faster, and more athletic,
making them more suitable for being ridden.
14 | HORSES
The domestic horse

The only surviving species of the wild horse is the Przewalski’s
horse, which lives in Mongolia. Most other horses are domesticated,
which means they have been selectively bred by humans to perform
certain tasks. Horses that have been bred to have the same set
of characteristics are known as a “type,” such as light horses and
heavy horses. By breeding similar types of horse with one another,
a consistent variety may be produced, known as a “breed.”
Ponies
Typically, horses smaller than 14.2 hands
are called ponies. Most ponies originated
in harsh environments that provided little
nutrition, which is why they are smaller
than light and heavy horses. They are
also tough, steady, and sure-footed and
have coats that allow them to live outside
all year round.
Light horses
Light horses are usually
14.2–16 hands tall. They are
mainly used as riding horses,
being faster and more athletic
than most ponies and heavy
horses. Their light bodies and
long legs give them speed, so
they are often used for racing
and other sports.
THE DOMESTIC HORSE | 15
Hotbloods, coldbloods, and warmbloods
Horses are sometimes Coldbloods came from the Horses that are produced
grouped by the region where colder northern regions of by crossbreeding hotbloods
they originated. Horses that the world. They are heavier, and coldbloods are known
came from desert areas are stronger, and slower than as warmbloods. They have
called hotbloods. They usually hotbloods and typically the speed and agility of
have a fiery nature. Most light have a gentle nature. Most hotbloods but typically
horses are hotbloods. heavy horses are coldbloods. have a calmer nature.
Heavy
horses
Breeds taller than
16.2 hands are
known as heavy
horses. Most are
coldbloods and are
generally larger and
heavier than warmbloods
and hotbloods. Being very
muscular and strong, they
are used for pulling heavy
loads. Many have feathering—
long hair growing on their
lower legs.
16 | HORSES
Work horses
Ever since they were domesticated,
horses have been used for pulling
heavy loads, for transportation,
and in battle. After the invention
of machines and vehicles
powered by steam and
electricity in the 19th century,
the demand for work horses
decreased. However, they are still
used in ceremonial parades, on some
farms, and by police forces and armies.
Policing
Today, horses are used by several police forces,
including those in the US, the UK, and Canada.
Mounted police officers use specially trained
horses to patrol busy streets. Horses are also
used to control crowds because they are large
and provide clear views to the riders.
Heavy work
Horses played an important role in the
Industrial Revolution (1750–1850). They
were used to provide power to machines,
such as cotton-spinning frames, and to turn
mill wheels to grind wheat or malt. They also
hauled coal, a major source of energy for
machines and vehicles, from mines.
WORK HORSES | 17
Agricultural work
In some countries, horses are still used on
farms for draft work—pulling vehicles or
machines, such as those used for plowing
or threshing. Many farmers still prefer horses
to tractors, since they do not cause pollution,
and their dung is a good fertilizer. They are
also used for hauling heavy logs in forests.
Carriages
In past centuries, horse-
drawn carriages were widely
used for transporting goods and
people and for postal services.
Today, they are still used for certain
activities, such as sightseeing tours
and royal ceremonies. The activity
of a horse pulling a vehicle to which
it is harnessed (attached with straps
and fittings) is called driving.
18 | HORSES
Sport horses
Horseback-riding, or equestrian, events have been popular since
ancient times, and today are staged all over the world. In addition
to the activities shown here, horses are used for show jumping,
eventing, dressage, and polo.
Festivals
Several ancient equestrian sports are still performed at events
and festivals around the world. For example, the Litang festival
in China features tent pegging—in which competitors
use lances to pick up targets from the
ground—and reenactments of medieval-
style jousts (horseback duels) are held
in the US and the UK.
Gymkhanas
Gymkhanas are multigame horse-riding events that
are usually organized for children. Events can include
bending, in which a rider weaves through a row of
poles. This is similar to barrel racing, in which a
horse is maneuvered around a set of barrels.
SPORT HORSES | 19
Racing events
Horse races have been held for as
long as people have been riding horses.
Modern racing events usually involve
galloping horses over a set distance,
with or without obstacles for them
to jump over. Other popular events
include harness racing, in which a horse is
harnessed to a small cart (called a sulky) in
which a rider sits, and endurance races.
Performance
Some sports involve horses
and riders being judged on
their performance. In dressage,
the suppleness, balance, and
obedience of a horse are tested.
In vaulting (below), gymnastics are
performed on the back of a horse,
which is judged on its movement.
Tent pegging
20 | HORSES
Gaits
Horses have four natural ways of moving, known as
gaits. These are the walk, trot, canter, and gallop. Some
breeds have specialized gaits, which include ambling
or pacing. For example, the fox trot is the ambling gait
of the Missouri Fox Trotter, and the running walk that of
the Tennessee Walking Horse.
Natural gaits
One of the differences between the four natural gaits is
the speed at which the horse travels. The walk has an
average speed of 4 mph (6.4 kph); the trot, about 8 mph
(13 kph); the canter, 10–17 mph (16–27 kph); and the
gallop, 25–30 mph (40–48 kph). Gaits are also
described by beats—the number of times
each leg touches the ground in one cycle.
GAITS | 21
A walk is a four-beat gait in which the legs are placed on the ground one at a time.
The hind leg is placed first, followed by the foreleg of the same side. The sequence
is then repeated on the other side.
The trot is a two-beat gait in which the foreleg and hind leg diagonally opposite each other hit the
ground at the same time. This step is then repeated by the other pair of diagonally opposite legs.
In the three-beat canter, one hind leg hits the ground first, followed by the other hind leg
along with the foreleg diagonally opposite to it. The remaining foreleg hits the ground last.
The gallop is a four-beat gait in which one hind leg hits the ground first. This is followed
by the other hind leg, the foreleg diagonally opposite to it, and finally, the remaining foreleg.
22 | HORSES
Behavior and
communication
Horses are social animals. They
live in groups called herds and
communicate with each other
mainly using body language
and vocalization—making
sounds with their vocal cords.
Play-fighting
Young horses often play-fight
by rearing, biting, and kicking
to establish dominance. These
fights rarely result in any kind
of injury.
BEHAVIOR AND COMMUNICATION | 23
Best range Blind spot Best vision where ranges

of vision of left and right eye overlap FlEhMEn
Eyes If a horse senses an unusual smell,
it curls its top lip to draw more air
Horses have large
into its mouth so it can analyze the
Range Range eyes set on the sides
smell with a special
seen by seen by of their head. This organ. This response
left eye right eye gives them a wide
only only
is known as flehmen,
range of vision, which and is also used by
helps them to look out stallions to find out
for danger. if a mare is ready
for mating.
Blind spot Blind spot
Ears
Horses have a highly
developed sense of hearing.
Each ear is controlled by
13 pairs of muscles and
can be moved in different
directions. The position
of each ear is often
a demonstration of One ear forward Both ears bent Both ears
a horse’s mood. and one ear back back may mean forward means
means the horse the horse is not the horse is alert.
is relaxed. happy.
Mutual grooming
Horses that are well known
to each other often bond
through mutual grooming.
This involves the animals
standing head to tail and
nibbling each other around
the hindquarters and withers.
24 | HORSES
The Velká pardubická (Czech Republic)

and the Grand Annual (Australia) each have
33 obstacles,
the highest number for any steeplechase
HORSES | 25
SteeplechaSing
This event gets it name from horse races held in 18th-
century Ireland. Riders rode through the countryside
over uneven fields and other natural obstacles, using
church steeples as course landmarks. Most races held
today, such as the Velká pardubická shown here, are
over artificial obstacles, such as brush fences.
26 | HORSES
PONIES | 27
Ponies
Usually, ponies are horses that measure
less than 14.2 hands. Their small size
is due to the fact that they evolved in
harsh conditions where food was scarce.
Ponies from cold climates developed
thick coats, manes, and tails to adapt
to their environments.
PONY TREKKING
Pony trekking is a popular
sport all around the world.
Riders follow trails and
navigate their ponies
around obstacles across
rough and rocky terrains.
28 | PONIES
What is a pony?
A pony is a small horse, measuring less
than 14.2 hands at the withers when fully
grown. However, there are exceptions.
In some cases, a horse more than
14.2 hands tall may be classified as Withers
a pony because of its proportions

or local traditions.
Anatomy
Ponies usually have wider necks,
shorter heads, and thicker manes
than other horses. The body
length of a pony is more than
the height at its withers,
and the depth of its girth
equals the length of its leg.
The length of a pony’s
head is equal to that
of its shoulders.
WHAT IS A PONY? | 29
working Ponies
Despite their small size, ponies are strong

and can pull heavy loads. They are still
used as pack animals (those that carry
goods) in some places around the world.
Pony breeds
Mountain and moorland ponies,
such as the Dartmoor Pony, are able
to survive in harsh climates. Many
European ponies, including Austria’s
Haflinger and the Norwegian Fjord, were
once widely used for riding and driving.
Some new breeds, such as the Ponies
of the Americas, have been specifically
developed for smaller riders.
30 | PonIEs
Ponies
focus on... Ponies are strong animals that were
grooming originally bred for driving and transporting
Regular grooming goods and people. During the Industrial
keeps horses clean
and healthy and Revolution (1750–1850), they were used in
helps riders bond coal mines as well. Today, they are mostly
with their horses.
ridden for leisure, especially by children.
icelandic Horse
▲ Brushing the coat
removes dirt and dried This pony has one of the purest bloodlines because it
mud. It also massages has rarely been crossbred. There has been some selective
the body. breeding within the stock to enhance the five gaits it is noted
for—walk, trot, canter, tolt, and pace.
size 12.3–14.2 hands

origin Iceland
colors All colors
▲ It is important to pick out
and shoe a horse’s hooves
regularly. Before a horse is
shod, excess hoof growth
is removed.
Deep girth
▲ The tail and mane
are brushed to remove
tangles and mud. A body
brush is used to prevent
hair breakage.
PONIES | 31
Gotland
Found on the Swedish

island of Gotland since
the Stone Age, this pony
is believed to be the oldest
Scandinavian breed. Its
quick and active gait makes
it suitable for jumping and
trotting races.

origin Gotland, Sweden
colors Black, brown
Fjord
The Fjord has several primitive

features, such as a dorsal stripe,
zebra bars, and a mane that
is traditionally cut so that
the black hair at the center
stands out. This sturdy pony
is suitable for plowing and
carrying heavy loads on remote
mountain farms.

origin Norway
colors Dun, occasionally gray
32 | PONIES
Konik
The Konik has lived in

Poland for centuries
and has many primitive
markings, including a
dorsal stripe. This quiet
breed is easily managed
and useful for light agricultural
work and haulage.

origin South and east Poland
color Blue dun
Haflinger
A mountain pony, the Haflinger

can move comfortably on steep
slopes. It can be ridden and used
in forestry work, or for drawing
a sled or wheeled vehicle. In
Austria, Haflingers, sometimes
called Edelweiss ponies, have
a brand mark featuring Austria’s
native flower, the edelweiss, with
the letter “H” in the center.

Body is relatively long,
origin Tyrol, Austria but has a deep girth
colors Any shade of sorrel
PONIES | 33
Huçul
The Huçul, also

called the Carpathian
pony, came from the
eastern Carpathian
Mountains thousands of years
ago. It is heavily built and has
great endurance. For centuries,
it was used for carrying heavy loads over
difficult mountain paths. Now it is mainly used
for light agricultural work and as a pack pony.
size About 13.3 hands

origin Carpathian Mountains, Poland
colors All except white, dappled, and roan
Connemara
Ireland’s only
indigenous pony, the
Connemara is now
bred throughout
Europe. Of all the
mountain breeds, it is used the
most in horse shows because it is
an excellent jumper and performance
pony. It can be ridden by adults as
well as children.

origin Connemara, Ireland
colors All solid colors
34 | PONIES
Eriskay
Due to crossbreeding, the number of Eriskay size 12–13.2 hands

ponies has reduced over time, and today only a origin Outer Hebrides, Scotland
few purebreds remain on the tiny island of Eriskay,
colors All colors
in the United Kingdom. The breed is mainly used
as a children’s pony, for endurance riding, and for
light draft work on the Scottish isles.
PONIES | 35
Highland
The tough Highland has lived

for centuries in extremely harsh
conditions. It is used for light
agricultural and forestry work.
A popular riding horse, it is also
often used for trekking.
size 13–14.2 hands

origin Highlands and islands, Scotland
Soft, silky
feathering
at hooves
Shetland
Despite its small size,

the Shetland is one of the
strongest of all horse and
pony breeds. It can carry
a rider over rough terrain
and work under heavy loads.
Shetlands are gentle and are often used
for short rides in carnivals and fairs.
size Up to 10.2 hands

origin Shetland Islands, Scotland
colors All colors, except spotted
Limbs are short
and strong
36 | PONIES
Welsh Mountain Pony
This pony has the highest

population of all the British
mountain and moorland
breeds. Because of its origins
on wild uplands, it has evolved
into an exceptionally powerful breed.
It has a strong body, and, because it has
been crossed with other breeds such
as the Arab, it has a well-formed head.
size Up to 12 hands Compact

body with
origin Wales
a deep girth
Welsh Pony
The Welsh Pony has the same small, pointed ears

as the Welsh Mountain Pony and, like other Welsh
breeds, it has a deep girth. However, its larger size
makes it more versatile than the Welsh Mountain
Pony. It also reflects features of other breeds,
such as the Arab, with which it has been crossed
in the past.

origin Wales
PONIES | 37
Dales
Initially developed
as a pack pony, the
sturdy Dales was
used in mining and
farmwork. The modern
breed retains the strong bones and
limbs of early Dales ponies, and its
calm nature and sure-footedness
make it popular for riding and trekking.

Short, powerful
origin Eastern Pennines, England limbs with silky
colors Black, brown, gray, bay, roan feathering
Fell
Like the Dales, the Fell was earlier used

as a pack pony. Today, it is popular for riding
and is commonly crossbred to produce
competition horses.
size Up to 14 hands
origin Western
Pennines, England
colors Black,
brown, bay, gray
38 | PONIES
Hackney Pony
First bred in the 1880s, the

Hackney Pony is not to be
confused with the Hackney Horse,
since it displays genuine pony features.
It has a light frame, a small head, and an arched,
muscular neck. It is harnessed to pull light,
two-wheeled vehicles.
size 12.2–14 hands

origin Cumbria, England
colors Black, brown, bay, sorrel
New Forest Pony
The New Forest Pony

is one of the larger
native British
breeds. This
sure-footed animal
is still used in the
tough terrain of the New Forest. It is
also used for dressage, gymkhanas,
show jumping, and driving.

Long, sloping
origin New Forest, England shoulders are well
colors All colors except piebald, suited to riding
skewbald, and spotted
PONIES | 39
Lundy Pony
This is a fairly recent breed of pony, first size Up to 13.2 hands

developed in 1928 on the island of Lundy by origin Lundy, England
the island’s owner, Martin Coles Harman. It
colors Dun, gray, roan, bay, palomino,
has a wide chest, strong legs, a muscular neck,
liver sorrel
and a compact back. Its gentle nature makes
it popular among children.
40 | PONIES
Dartmoor
For centuries, the wild, hilly area where this

pony is from has been easily accessible
by land and sea. As a result, numerous
breeds have been brought into the area
and crossed with this pony. Today, few
purebred Dartmoors remain on the moor
(uncultivated hilly area).

origin Dartmoor, Devon, England
colors Black, brown, bay, sorrel,
gray, roan
Exmoor
The Exmoor is
the oldest of the British
mountain and moorland
breeds. Because of
the remoteness of its
habitat, it was not
crossbred often, so
it has remained a relatively pure breed.
It is a strong and powerful pony, suitable
for long-distance riding and driving.
Deep girth size 11.2–12.3 hands

origin Exmoor, Somerset, England
colors Brown, bay, dun
PONIES | 41
Sorraia
A descendant of the first

primitive horses to be
domesticated in Europe,
the Sorraia still has some
features of its wild ancestors.
Its coat has primitive markings,
such as the dorsal stripe and
zebra bars. It also has a large head and straight
shoulders that are typical of early horses, which
were bred specifically for these features.
Short legs
size About 14.2 hands support compact,
origin Plains of Sor and Raia, Portugal robust body
colors Light to dark dun
42 | PONIES
Landais
The Landais was originally a semi-wild

pony. During World War II, it was crossed with
heavier breeds to strengthen its build, so it is
hard to find a purebred Landais today. After
the formation of pony clubs in France in the
1970s, the Landais began to be bred selectively
to meet the demand
for children’s ponies.
size Up to
13.1 hands
origin Landes,
France
colors
Black, brown,
bay, sorrel
Pottok
One of the few remaining native

ponies of France, the Pottok is
still semi-wild. Until World War II,
it was used as a pack pony by
smugglers in the Basque region.
Today, it is in demand as a children’s
pony because of its obedient nature,
although it has some conformational
weaknesses, such as its short neck.

origin Basque region, France
colors Bay, brown, black, part-colored
PONIES | 43
Camargue
The semi-wild Camargue lives

near the marshes of the Rhone Delta in
southern France. It is ridden by gardians—
cowboys who herd the black Camargue
bulls. Nearly all adult Camargue ponies
are marked with the breed brand, which
is a “C” in a shield.

origin Camargue, France
color Gray
Ariégeois
This tough breed

can withstand even the
harshest of cold weather.
During Napoleon’s French
invasion of Russia in 1812,
the Ariégeois coped with the difficult
conditions much better than larger horses.
Its feet are extremely hard, so it can work
on steep, icy mountains, and travel long
distances without horseshoes for protection.
size About 14.1–14.2 hands

origin Eastern Pyrenees, France
color Black
44 | HORSES
pony express
In the mid-19th century, some areas in the US still
used horse-drawn carriages to carry mail. The Pony
Express, a relay horseback postal service started
in 1860 between Missouri and California, cut down
delivery time from weeks to days. It was stopped
after the introduction of the telegraph in these areas.
PONIES | 45
The shortest time taken to cover the entire

Pony Express trail of 2,000 miles (3,300 km) was
7 days and
17 hours
46 | PONIES
Bashkir
The Bashkir is able to survive even

in subzero temperatures. It is bred
as a pack and draft animal, as well as
for its milk and meat. Its thick, curly
winter coat can be cut and spun
to make cloth.
size About 14 hands

origin Russian
Federation,
northern Eurasia
colors Sorrel,
bay, light brown
Skyrian Horse
Despite its small size,

the Skyrian Horse, or Skyros,
has proportions similar to a
horse, and is an excellent
jumper. Its coat is often marked
with a dorsal stripe and zebra
bars, and its feet are always black.
Crossbreeding with feral donkeys
from nearby areas has reduced
the number of purebred Skyrians.

origin Island of Skyros, Greece
colors Bay, dun, red-brown
PONIES | 47
Caspian
Despite its small

size, the Caspian
is an excellent
jumper and runs
as fast as much larger horses.
Its narrow body makes it
suitable for young riders.

origin Arabian Peninsula,
Middle East
colors All colors, except
part-colored
Pindos Pony
A harsh climate has

made the sure-footed
Pindos Pony a tough
breed that can live
on very little food. It is
used as a pack pony, for riding and driving,
and for agricultural and forestry work. Known
for its stamina, it is also very stubborn.
size 13 hands
origin Thessalonika, Greece
colors Black, brown, bay
48 | PONIES
Batak
This pony is central to the life of the local Batak size 12–13 hands
people from Indonesia. Aside from being bred for
origin Central Sumatra, Indonesia
its meat, it is used for riding and racing. Its steady,
calm nature and willingness to work make up for colors All colors
its weak bones and poor muscular development.
PONIES | 49
Tibetan Pony
Even though it has existed since ancient times, size Up to 12 hands

the Tibetan Pony was not officially recognized origin Tibet
as a breed until 1980. In the past, these ponies
colors Mostly bay or gray
were often sent as gifts to Chinese emperors.
Today, they are mostly used as light draft
animals, as well as for pack and riding work.
50 | PONIES
Sandalwood Pony
This pony is named

after the sandalwood tree,
which is Indonesia’s main
export. The biggest of the
Indonesian ponies, it is used
for riding, farm, and draft work, and for carrying
loads. It is also used in harness racing and in
Indonesia’s famous bareback races, which can
be up to 3 miles (5 km) long.
size 12.2 hands

origin Sumba and Sumbawa
Islands, Indonesia
colors All colors
Timor
The Timor is the smallest

Indonesian pony breed. It is
important for the island’s economy,
since it is used as a pack animal
and for riding. It is also used by
local herders to drive cattle.
size 10–12 hands

origin Timor Island, Indonesia
colors All colors
PONIES | 51
Sumba Pony
The Sumba Pony is usually controlled by a size 12 hands

traditional braided leather bridle. In many Asian origin Sumba Island, Indonesia
cultures, Sumba ponies are trained to perform
colors All solid colors, dun
native dances in which small bells are attached
to their feet.
52 | PONIES
Java Pony
Because of its ability to withstand extreme heat, size 11.2–12.2 hands

the Java Pony is especially useful in the tropical origin Java Island, Indonesia
climate of the Indonesian island of Java. It is
colors All colors
mainly used to pull sados—two-wheeled taxis
that carry both goods and people. This breed
is also ridden, and unlike other island ponies,
its wooden saddle features toe stirrups—ropes
with a knot at the ends for the rider’s toes.
PONIES | 53
Hokkaido Pony
One of Japan’s few native

breeds, the Hokkaido
Pony is suitable for
transportation and
farmwork in the
mountains, where other
vehicles cannot pass. Some ranchers take
their ponies to the mountains in the winter to
maintain the breed’s sturdiness. The ponies
return to ranches in the spring by themselves.

origin Japan
colors Bay, black, sorrel, gray, roan
Tokara Pony
This breed was used for

agricultural work, such
as sugarcane processing.
With the growing use of
mechanical equipment,
the demand for this pony
dropped, and it stopped
being bred. It is now an endangered breed,
and despite efforts to increase its population,
there are only about 100 Tokara ponies left
in the world today.

origin Tokara Islands, Japan
color Brown Blue horn (blue
or black) hooves
54 | PONIES
Australian Pony
Because Australia did not have any native size Up to 14 hands

horses, different breeds were imported for
origin Australia
use by early settlers. The Australian Pony was
developed from these breeds by 1920. With its colors All colors
smooth stride and well-angled shoulders, this
pony is suitable for children and young riders.
PONIES | 55
American Shetland
The American Shetland has no resemblance size Up to 11.2 hands

to its founding breed, the sturdy Shetland. It origin US
is longer and narrower and has more refined
colors All colors except spotted
features. Well suited to being ridden by children,
it is also used for show jumping, harness racing,
and gymkhanas.
56 | PONIES
Pony of the Americas
This pony was developed

in 1954 by Leslie Boomhower
of Mason City, Iowa, to provide
a pony that was suitable for
all children’s activities. It
has short, strong legs and
hard feet that are not prone to
diseases or damage from hard
ground. These qualities make
it ideal for ranch work, hunting,
and endurance riding.

origin Iowa
color Spotted
Galiceno
The Galiceno was

popular for its smooth,
steady running-walk, a
gait that is still present in the modern
Galiceno. Its comfortable gait and size
make the Galiceno ideal for young riders
moving from ponies to horses. Obedient
and tough, it is used for ranch and farmwork,
as well as for competition.
size Up to 14 hands
origin Mexico
PONIES | 57
Chincoteague Pony
There are only about 200 of

these ponies left on the islands
of Assateague (now a national
park) and Chincoteague. These
salty, sandy islands have little
nutritious food. As a result, the breed
suffered from several weaknesses, such
as poor bone density and misshapen limbs.
Crossbreeding has, however, improved the stock.

origin Chincoteague and Assateague, Virginia
colors Most colors
Newfoundland Pony
In the past, this pony was used for

plowing, hauling fish nets, gathering hay, and
as transportation. Mechanization, however,
reduced the demand for the Newfoundland
Pony and it was not bred as often. There are
fewer than 400 of these ponies today, and
the breed is considered endangered.

origin Newfoundland, Canada
gray, roan, dun
58 | HORSES
Pony race
Shetlands are small,
strong, and generally
good-tempered, so
they make great
ponies for children.
These Shetlands and
their young riders are
taking part in the
Shetland Pony Grand
National finals at the
London International
Horse Show. Riders
must jump over fences
up to 24 in (60 cm) high
on horses that are just
3½ ft (1.03 m) tall.
Shetlands are the
strongest
of all horse breeds relative to
their size and can pull loads
twice their own weight
PONIES | 59
60 | HORSES
LIGHT HORSES | 61
Light horses
Most horses that stand between 14.2 hands and
16 hands are categorized as light horses. Typically
large and fast, they have a longer stride and a
less rounded girth than ponies, which make them
more comfortable for adults to ride. Some breeds
are often crossbred to produce horses suitable
for show and sports.
WESTERN RIDING
Cowboys in the Americas
developed this riding style
to suit their long working
hours. The bridle and saddle
are specially designed for
cattle herding.
62 | LIGHT HORSES
What is a light horse?

Light horses are fast and powerful with good
stamina. In previous centuries, they were used in
battle and to transport people rapidly from place to
place, either by being ridden or pulling lightweight
carriages. However, the introduction of new
technologies, such as motor vehicles, reduced
the demand for horses to perform these tasks.
Anatomy
A light horse has long legs, so the distance
from its withers to the ground is more than
the length of its body. Any horse with these
proportions is classified as a light horse,
even if it is less than 14.2 hands high.
sport horses
Light horses excel at sports. In harness

racing, horses race against each other,
pulling small, two-wheeled carts using
either a trot or a pacing gait.
WHAT IS A LIGHT HORSE? | 63
The withers are

the highest point
of the shoulder
and should slope
away gradually
to the back.
64 | LIGHT HoRsEs
Light horses
Bred for speed, light horses were mainly focus on...
used to pull carts, for light draft work, Legendary
and for riding. Today, these calm animals horses
Throughout history,
can be seen competing in a variety of horses have played an
sporting events and horse shows. important part in war.
swedish Warmblood
The swedish Warmblood is larger than most size 15.2–17 hands

light horses, and has strong shoulders, limbs, origin sweden
and joints. Bred originally for cavalry, it is now
in demand as a competition horse for jumping,
driving, and eventing. It is good-natured, which
also makes it suitable for dressage.
LIGHT HORSES | 65
◀ Babieca was ◀ Bucephalus was

the war horse of the horse ridden by
Ruy Diaz, or El Alexander the Great
Cid—a Spanish in battle. After
hero who led the his horse died,
troops of Spain Alexander founded
against the Moors. the city of Bucephala,
named after his
beloved companion.
Døle Gudbrandsdal
The Døle Gudbrandsdal makes up almost half size 14.2–15.2 hands

of Norway’s horse population. It was originally
origin Gudbrandsdal valley, Norway
used as a pack horse and in farming, but has
since been crossbred with lighter breeds colors Black, brown, bay, sorrel
specifically to produce riding horses.
66 | LIGHT HORSES
Finnish Horse
Originally, there were two breeds of Finnish Horse—

the Finnish Draft and the Finnish Universal. The
heavier Draft horse was a sturdy, powerful animal
with quick, active paces. Since the 1970s,
however, there has been a higher demand for the
lighter Universal horse, which is used for riding,
transportation, and harness racing. This breed
is easy-going and has great stamina.
size 15.2 hands

origin Finland
colors Mostly black, bay, sorrel
Knabstrup
The Knabstrup
is known for
its unusual
leopard-spotted
coat. Once popular
as a circus horse, it was also used by
Denmark during the Schleswig War
(1848–50), fought against Germany.
size More than 14.2 hands

origin Denmark
colors Mostly spotted, but some
solid colors
LIGHT HORSES | 67
Danish Warmblood
A relatively new breed, the Danish

Warmblood is a handsome horse with
strong limbs. Its free action and excellent
nature make it suitable for dressage
and show jumping competitions.
size About
16.2 hands
origin Denmark
colors
All solid colors
Frederiksborg
Denmark’s oldest breed,

the Frederiksborg was developed
at the Royal Frederiksborg Stud,
founded in 1562 by King Frederik II.
He wanted a breed that could be used
in the army as well as in parade and
court ceremonies. This lively horse, with
an energetic action, was considered a
mark of luxury and many Frederiksborgs
were sold abroad, leading to the closing
of the stud farm in 1839.

origin Denmark
colors Bay, sorrel, gray, dun, palomino
68 | LIGHT HORSES
Wielkopolski
The Wielkopolski was bred by crossing two

Polish breeds—the Poznan and the Masuren—
that are now extinct. The horse is known for its origin Central and western Poland
different paces—long, easy walk; low, level trot; colors All solid colors
and fast canter and gallop.
LIGHT HORSES | 69
Trakehner
Widely considered as
Europe’s finest warmblood, this
competition horse is very good
at dressage and show jumping.
It was also a popular military horse. During
World War II, 1,200 Trakehners were trekked
900 miles (1,450 km) across Europe to
prevent them from falling into Soviet hands.
Strong,
sloping size 15.2–16.2 hands
shoulders origin Lithuania
Irish Draft
This breed is often

crossbred to produce
sport horses. When
crossed with the
Thoroughbred, it produces the world’s
best cross-country horse—the Irish hunter.

origin Ireland, UK
Hind legs are

powerful with
strong thighs
70 | LIGHT HORSES
Welsh Cob
The Welsh Cob is a

larger version of the
Welsh Mountain Pony. It
was formerly used by the
military and is still used for riding
and driving. It is often crossed with
the Thoroughbred to produce
competition horses.

origin Wales
colors All colors except piebald
and skewbald
Hackney Horse
The modern Hackney

has great stamina and can
trot at high speeds for long
periods. It is known for its
high action, which makes it seem like
the horse is floating. For these reasons,
this breed is the most spectacular
show-ring harness horse.

Forelegs have an origin Norfolk, England
elevated action colors Bay, dark brown,
sorrel, black
LIGHT HORSES | 71
Cleveland Bay
The Cleveland Bay is one of Britain’s oldest size 16–16.2 hands

and purest indigenous breeds. After World origin Cleveland, England
War II, their numbers declined and by 1962,
color Bay
there were only four stallions left in Britain.
With only 500 purebreds left in the world,
this breed remains on the Rare Breeds
Survival Trust’s critical list.
Powerful quarters
help in jumping
72 | LIGHT HORSES
Anglo-Arab
The Anglo-Arab was developed with the goal size 15.2–16.3 hands
of combining the stamina of the Arab and
origin UK and France
the speed of the Thoroughbred. Although
not as fast as the Thoroughbred, it has colors All solid colors
similar proportions that allow a strong gallop.
LIGHT HORSES | 73
Thoroughbred
One of the fastest and most valuable breeds in size 15–17 hands
the world, the Thoroughbred forms the base of origin England
a huge racing industry. It is also the main horse
used in crossbreeding to improve other breeds
and produce competition horses.
74 | LIGHT HORSES
Dutch Warmblood
This is one of the

most successful competition
breeds. It is athletic, with
strong limbs and feet, and
good at show jumping and dressage. Breeders
of Dutch Warmbloods ensure that only horses of
good conformation and action and calm nature
are selected to be crossbred.
size 16–17 hands

origin Netherlands
colors Black, brown, bay, gray
Gelderlander
The Gelderlander was

bred with the goal of producing
a horse suited for drawing
carriages and capable of
doing some light draft
work. Its legs are short and
strong, and it performs well
in driving competitions.

origin Gelder province,
Netherlands
colors Sorrel, bay, gray
LIGHT HORSES | 75
Friesian
This breed performs

best when in harness
because it is energetic
and has a well-balanced
gait. Its black coat made
it a popular carriage
horse because it could easily
be matched to other breeds.
size 15–16 hands

origin Friesland, Netherlands
color Black
Groningen
The Groningen
has limited knee
movement, so until
1945 it was used
only for heavy
farmwork. Due to an
increased demand for active and
versatile horses, however, it has been
bred to be lighter and more compact. As a
result, it hardly exists in its original form now.

origin Groningen region, Netherlands
colors Black, bay, sorrel, gray
76 | LIGHT HORSES
Belgian Warmblood Bavarian Warmblood
Historically, Belgium has been known This is one of the oldest known German
for breeding heavy horses for farmwork, and warmbloods, with its origins dating back
the Belgian Warmblood is a recent development to the Crusades (1095–1291). The modern
aimed to produce competition horses. This agile Bavarian Warmblood has strong, short
breed is well suited to dressage and jumping. legs. It is calm and easily manageable,
so it is well suited to jumping and
dressage competitions.
origin Belgium
colors All colors
origin Rott Valley, Bavaria,
Germany
colors All colors
Hanoverian
One of the most

successful European
warmbloods, the
Hanoverian has a good
reputation as a show jumper
and dressage horse. A strict
process of selection ensures that
the breed has strength, correct
movement, and an easy-going nature.

origin Hanover, Germany
LIGHT HORSES | 77
Westphalian
After the
Hanoverian,
the Westphalian
makes up the largest
population of warmbloods
in Germany. Its Hanoverian influences
make it ideal for sporting events,
including show jumping and dressage.

origin Germany
78 | HORSES
White horses were considered
sacred
by the Celtic tribes of
ancient Britain
LIGHT HORSES | 79
Uffington White horse

Cut into the chalk hills of southern
England, the 360-ft- (110-m-) long Uffington
White Horse is at least 3,000 years old. This
figure is believed to represent Epona, the Celtic
horse-goddess of health, fertility, and death.
80 | LIGHT HORSES
Mecklenburger
Until World War II, Mecklenburgers were bred

as all-purpose utility horses. They worked as
cavalry, transportation, and farm horses. The
increase in the use of machinery after the war
reduced the work of these horses, and they
are now mainly bred for riding and sports.
size 15.3 hands and above

origin Germany
colors Black, bay, sorrel, gray
Holstein
Originally a heavier
breed, the Holstein
worked as a coach
horse. As the demand
for riding horses increased, it was
crossbred with the Thoroughbred. The
modern Holstein has correct, straight,
and rhythmic paces and is now used
for dressage and show jumping.
Muscular
thighs size 15.2–17 hands
origin Holstein, Germany
LIGHT HORSES | 81
Oldenburg
The heaviest
of the German
warmbloods, the Oldenburg was
first developed as a coach horse for
journeys over rough roads. Since then,
it has been selectively bred to suit
changing requirements and is now
most often a riding horse.

origin Oldenburg, Germany
Thick legs with
short cannons
82 | LIGHT HORSES
Rhinelander
This heavy horse

was once used in
agriculture, but has
since been crossbred to produce a lighter
Rhinelander. This variety has an easy, steady
nature and is well suited for leisure riding.

origin Rhineland and Westphalia, Germany
Wurttemburg
The ancestors of the Wurttemburg

were bred in the 17th century as
utility horses that could be used for
riding and light harness work. The
modern Wurttemburg is athletic,
with a conformation that makes
it a successful show jumper
in competitions.

origin Marbach, Wurttemburg, Germany
colors Black, brown, bay, sorrel
LIGHT HORSES | 83
Lusitano
The Lusitano has quick

movements and great balance. It has a
naturally high action and the demand
for this cooperative and responsive
breed has grown because it
performs well in dressage and
classical riding. Its agility and
balance also made it popular
with mounted bullfighters.
size About 15.1–15.3 hands

origin Portugal
colors Mostly gray; also bay,
black, dun, palomino, sorrel
Alter-Real
The Alter-Real gets its name from the

town Alter de Chão, where it was first bred.
Real means “royal” in Portuguese, and as the
name suggests, this horse was bred for the
royal stables, for classical riding, as well
as for drawing carriages.
size 15–16 hands

origin Alter,
Portugal
colors Brown,
bay, gray
84 | LIGHT HORSES
Andalucian
The modern Andalucian is

agile and athletic, with strong
limbs and shoulders. Its mane
and tail are often wavy.

origin Jerez, Spain
colors All except part-colored
Shoulders are
strong and wide
French Trotter
This breed was

developed for the sport
of trotting, which was
established in France in the
early 19th century. It has powerful limbs and
well-balanced gaits.

origin Normandy, France
colors Mostly brown, bay, sorrel
LIGHT HORSES | 85
Selle Français
The Selle Français was developed

as a show jumper. This strong horse
has an energetic movement
and long stride and performs
well in cross-country racing
and eventing.

origin Normandy, France
colors All colors
Freiberger
This mountain-
bred draft horse
is active and
sure-footed. For
many years it was
used as a pack animal and for agricultural
work on small mountain farms. Today, this
horse can also be used for driving, riding,
eventing, and transportation.
size 14.3–15.2 hands Quarters have

powerful muscles
origin Switzerland
colors Bay, sorrel
86 | LIGHT HORSES
Shagya Arab
Bred in the 19th century as a riding size 15–16 hands

horse for the Hungarian cavalry, origin Babolna, Hungary
the Shagya Arab is now used in
colors Gray, bay, sorrel, black
competitions. Its character and
appearance are similar to those
of the Arab, from which it is
descended, although the
Shagya Arab is bigger,
with stronger bones.
LIGHT HORSES | 87
Nonius
When it was first bred

in the 19th century,
the Nonius had a
weak conformation,
including a heavy
head, a short neck, and a low-set tail.
Extensive crossing with Thoroughbreds
has improved the Nonius, and it is now
a good jumper and competition horse.

origin Hortobagy, Hungary
colors Black, brown, bay
Furioso
Also called the Furioso-

North Star, this horse is named
for the two horses used to
produce it—Furioso, an English
Thoroughbred, and North Star,
descended from the Norfolk
Roadster. Both stallions were bred with Nonius
mares, and the two crossbred versions were
intercrossed in 1885 to produce this breed.
Strong,
compact size 15.2–16.3 hands
body origin Apajpuszta, Hungary
colors Bay, black, brown
88 | LIGHT HORSES
Salerno
Once a popular cavalry

breed, the Salerno is an expert riding
horse and has a talent for jumping.
Its Thoroughbred influence has given
it a strong, elegant conformation, with excellent
bones and feet.
size 16–17 hands

origin Campania, Italy
colors Mostly black, bay, sorrel
Murgese
The Murgese is useful

for light draft work and
on farms. Despite some
conformational weaknesses,
such as a short stride and poorly developed
quarters, it is a useful cross to produce
good riding horses, because of its energetic
movement and calm nature.

origin Murge, Italy
LIGHT HORSES | 89
Sanfratellano
This semi-wild breed lives

in the Nebrodi Mountain Park,
Sicily. It is strong and muscular
and is mainly used for riding and
light draft work.

origin Sicily, Italy
colors Bay, black
Maremmana
Once bred for use by troops and

the police, this versatile horse
can also be used for agricultural
and draft work. Italian herders use
this breed to herd cattle.

origin Tuscany, Italy
90 | LIGHT HORSES
Lipizzaner
Originally bred as a show horse for the nobility, size 15.1–15.2 hands
the Lipizzaner is now used for riding, driving,
origin Lipica, Slovenia
and draft work, and the breed excels at classical
dressage. While most horses have an average colors Mostly gray; also black, bay
life span of 28 years, Lipizzaners are known to
live well into their thirties.
LIGHT HORSES | 91
Barb
Because of its historical and continued use in the

production of most of the world’s horses, the Barb
is one of the founding breeds of the world’s horse
population. Originally used in the military, it is now often
used in races and to produce other racing breeds.

origin Morocco
colors All colors
92 | HORSES
Royal hoRses
Elegant Lipizzaners are
famous for their classic
dressage skills. They
perform haute école
(high school) acrobatic
movements, which
require strength,
control, and balance.
The best place to see
Lipizzaners perform is
at the Spanish Riding
School in Vienna,
Austria. At more than
400 years old, it is the
oldest riding academy
in the world.
LIGHT HORSES | 93
It can take
10 years
of training for a Lipizzaner
stallion to be able to perform
“airs above the ground” dressage
94 | LIGHT HORSES
Kladruber
The Kladruber is primarily bred at the

Kladruby stud farm in the Czech Republic,
set up by Emperor Rudolph II in 1579. This
breed was originally used as a galakarosier
(carriage horse) by the royal House of Austria.

ORiGiN Czech Republic
COlORs Black, gray
The Czech Republic

gave the UK’s Prince
William and Kate
Middleton a Kladruber
as a wedding present
in 2011.
LIGHT HORSES | 95
Karabakh
Originally from the

steppe-mountains of
Azerbaijan, this horse is
used in mounted games, such as chavgan,
a type of polo. It is the national animal of
Azerbaijan, and is even featured on the
country’s postage stamps.

ORiGiN Azerbaijan, northern Eurasia
Long, slender limbs COlORs Bay or sorrel with metallic
make the Karabakh golden tint, gray
suitable for racing
Czechoslovakian Warmblood
First used as a cavalry

horse, this breed is today
used in various sports
competitions and for light
agricultural work. Its calm
nature makes it suitable for
novice riders (those who are
learning to ride).

ORiGiN Czech Republic
COlORs Mostly black,
bay, sorrel
96 | LIGHT HORSES
Akhal-Teke
A historically significant breed in

Turkmenistan, where it is a national
emblem, the Akhal-Teke was used in
the military. These horses were often
presented as gifts to the rulers of
Russia in the 19th century. Bred
in a harsh desert climate, the breed
is noted for its stamina. Originally
used by local desert tribesmen,
it is now a sport horse.

ORiGiN Turkmenistan,
northern Eurasia
COlORs Mostly bay
and dun; black, sorrel,
palomino, all with metallic
sheen; also gray
In 1935, an Akhal-
Teke herd completed
a desert trail of 2,565
miles (4,128 km) in
84 days with little
food and water.
LIGHT HORSES | 97
Budenny
The Budenny is named after

Semyon Budenny, a cavalry commander
who set up the stud farms that led to the
development of this breed in the 1920s.
Originally intended as a Russian cavalry
horse, today it is used in steeplechasing,
endurance riding, and dressage.

ORiGiN Russian Federation, northern Eurasia
COlORs Mostly sorrel, bay
98 | LIGHT HORSES
Tersk
This fast horse is

excellent at endurance riding
and flat racing. It is noted for its
ability to survive in a harsh, cold
climate despite its fine coat.

ORiGiN Northern Caucasus,
northern Eurasia
COlORs Gray, bay, sorrel
Kabardin
This sure-footed
mountain breed can
easily cross steep
passes and rivers,
and travel in deep
snow. Known for its good
sense of direction, it can even find
its way through thick mountain mist.
It is used as a pack and riding horse.

ORiGiN Northern Caucasus, northern Eurasia
COlORs Black, bay
LIGHT HORSES | 99
Don
Valued for its strength and ability to work size 16.1 hands
in extremely cold climates, the Don was ORiGiN Russian Federation, northern Eurasia
traditionally used by the cavalry, most famously
COlORs Sorrel with metallic sheen,
by the Cossacks during the French invasion of
brown, bay
Russia in 1812. It is strong and calm-natured but
has some conformational weaknesses, including
short shoulders that limit the length of the stride.
During battles,
the Don was used
to pull a tachanka,
a cart with a
machine-gun installed
at the back.
100 | LIGHT HORSES
Orlov Trotter
The Orlov Trotter was developed in the

late 18th century by Alexei Orlov, a Russian
aristocrat, who wanted a suitable horse for
harness racing. This fast trotter is often
used to pull a troika, a Russian horse-drawn
vehicle. It is also increasingly being used to
improve other breeds because of its height
and strength.

ORiGiN Moscow, Russian Federation,
northern Eurasia
COlORs Black, bay, sorrel, gray
LIGHT HORSES | 101
Russian Trotter
The Russian Trotter has a muscular build and

is easy to train, making it suitable for racing.
Although its legs are powerful, its conformation
is not as strong as that of the Orlov Trotter.

ORiGiN Russia
COlORs Mostly black, bay, sorrel; also gray
102 | LIGHT HORSES
Arab
The Arab is one of the oldest breeds in the world,

and its ancestors can be traced back to 2500 bce.
It has been used to improve many modern horse
breeds. The most notable feature of the Arab is its
slightly inward-curving face, called a dish face.

ORiGiN Arabian Peninsula, Middle East
COlORs Mostly bay, sorrel, gray; also
black, roan
LIGHT HORSES | 103
Marwari
The Marwari is a rare breed

native to Jodhpur, India.
Traditionally, the locals
decorated it with jewels and
bells, and trained it to dance at ceremonies,
such as weddings—a practice that is still
popular in rural areas. The breed’s ability to
perform also makes it suitable for dressage.

ORiGiN Jodhpur, India
COlORs All colors
Kathiawari
Used by several Indian state police

forces, the Kathiawari is a strong horse that
can survive on little food and water. It has
highly flexible ears that, when pricked, curve
inward to touch each other at the tips.
size About 15 hands

ORiGiN Kathiawar province, India
COlORs Gray, sorrel, all shades of dun
104 | LIGHT HORSES
Australian Stock Horse
With immense stamina and strength,

this breed is capable of carrying heavy
weight and herding cattle and sheep
all day. It was once used as a cavalry
horse and exported to many countries
for use in their armies. It is now used
primarily as a riding horse.
size 14–16 hands

ORiGiN New South Wales, Australia
COlORs Mostly bay
Lokai
This small but strong

horse is used as a
pack animal in the
tough terrain of the
Caucasus Mountains. It
is also used for riding and
in the local sport of kokpar,
a game in which riders try and gain
possession of a goat carcass.

ORiGiN Tajikistan
COlORs Mostly black, bay, sorrel, gray
LIGHT HORSES | 105
Missouri Fox Trotter
This breed is known for

its peculiar “fox trot”
gait, in which it walks with
an energetic action with the front legs while
trotting with the hind legs. Its back remains
stable while performing this gait, which
makes this a comfortable riding horse.
size 14–16 hands

ORiGiN Arkansas and Missouri
COlORs Black, brown, bay, sorrel, dun
106 | LIGHT HORSES
Appaloosa
The Appaloosa is a spotted breed that has size More than 14.2 hands
five coat patterns—leopard, snowflake, blanket, origin US (established)
marble, and frost. Aside from its varied coloring,
color Spotted
it is unique for being the only breed whose
sclera—the white of the eyes around the
iris—is visible.
Leopard coat
The official horse

of the state of Idaho,
the Appaloosa
is featured on the
license plate
of its cars.
LIGHT HORSES | 107
Palomino
This horse is technically a color-type and not a size More than 14.2 hands
breed, since any horse with a golden coat and
origin US (established)
a white mane and tail is called a Palomino. When
two Palomino horses are bred with each other, color Palomino
there is only a 50 percent chance that the foal
will be of the same color.
108 | LIGHT HORSES
Quarter Horse
Famous for its short-distance sprinting, this size 14.3–16 hands

breed is actually named for its excellence in ORiGiN US
quarter-mile races. It is also used for herding
COlORs Most colors
cattle and in rodeo competitions.
LIGHT HORSES | 109
Pinto
Like the Palomino,

the Pinto is a color-type
and not a breed. It gets
its name from the Spanish
word pintado, which
means “painted.” This
breed has many coat patterns, of which the
most common are the overo, a solid-color
coat with white patches on it; and the tobiano,
a white coat with patches of solid color.
White patches on
overo coat are
shaped like jigsaw size Variable
puzzle pieces ORiGiN US
COlOR Part-colored
Araappaloosa
A cross between
the Arab and the
Appaloosa, this
breed is noted for
its stamina, sure-footedness,
and color. It is suitable for
endurance riding, shows,
and ranch work.
size 14–15 hands

ORiGiN US
COlOR Spotted
110 | HORSES
Rodeo Riding
Rodeos hold various
competitions, such
as bronc riding and
barrel racing. These
are traditional skills
used by cowboys
every day in working
cattle on the range
and breaking in new
mounts. The horses
used in rodeos are
encouraged to buck
by a strap that goes
around the rear of
their belly.
Bronc riding is a main rodeo event

in which a rider tries to stay on a
bucking horse
for at least eight seconds
LIGHT HORSES | 111
112 | LIGHT HORSES
Morgan
The Morgan is a
tough breed with strong
quarters and feet. Because
of its strength and stamina,
it was used extensively by the US Army
in the Civil War (1861–65), and today,
it is used for hunting, jumping, dressage,
and driving.

ORiGiN Massachusetts and
Vermont
COlORs All colors, but mostly
bay, sorrel
Colorado Ranger
The Colorado Ranger,

or Rangerbred, was
developed in 1878 by
breeding an Arab and a Barb.
The resulting horse was bred with trotting
mares and later, the spotted color was
introduced. This breed’s strong limbs,
compact body, and hard feet make it
an excellent working horse.

ORiGiN Colorado
COlORs Black, bay, sorrel,
gray, roan, spotted
LIGHT HORSES | 113
Morab
The Morab gets its name from its two size 14.1–15.2 hands
parent breeds, the Morgan and the Arab.
ORiGiN US
It was developed in the 1880s as a carriage
horse that could also do farmwork. Today, COlORs All colors except spotted
it is also used as a riding horse.
114 | LIGHT HORSES
Tennessee Walking Horse
The Tennessee Walking Horse is known for size 14.3–17 hands

its comfortable paces. Its three distinct gaits ORiGiN Tennessee
are: the flat walk in which it makes long, brisk
COlORs All colors
strides, traveling at 4–8 mph (6–13 kph); the
faster running walk, in which it increases its
speed to 10–20 mph (16–32 kph); and the
canter, in which riders are said to feel as
though they are sitting in a rocking chair.
LIGHT HORSES | 115
Standardbred
Standardbreds have powerful quarters, legs, size More than 14.2 hands
and feet. They are used for harness racing,
ORiGiN East Coast, US
in which they either trot or pace, and can
cover 1 mile (1.6 km) in under 2 minutes. COlORs Most colors
116 | LIGHT HORSES
Rocky Mountain Horse
The Rocky Mountain Horse is

noted for its smooth ambling gait,
which is comfortable for riders across
rough terrain. This sure-footed breed
is often used for riding and carrying
loads through the wild countryside of states
such as Wyoming and Montana.

ORiGiN Rocky Mountains
COlOR Chocolate
The Peruvian Paso

is considered part
of the patrimonio
cultural (cultural
heritage) of Peru.
LIGHT HORSES | 117
Campolina
The Campolina is named

after its Brazil-based breeder,
Cassiano Campolina. Its steady
ambling gait makes it suitable for
leisure riding, driving, and dressage.
size About 16 hands

ORiGiN Brazil
COlORs Most colors
Peruvian Paso
The Peruvian Paso has been

specifically bred to develop its unique
natural pace called the paso llano. This
is a comfortable, smooth gait in which the
forelegs swing outward from the knee.
The Peruvian Paso can maintain this gait
over long distances.

ORiGiN Peru
COlORs All solid colors, roan, palomino
Outward movement of forelegs

118 | LIGHT HORSES
Criollo

This tough breed is capable of living in
extreme climates on minimal food and ORiGiN Argentina
water. It has incredible stamina and can COlORs All colors
carry a rider over long distances and difficult
terrain. Also excellent at herding cattle, it is
used by gauchos—South American cowboys.
LIGHT HORSES | 119
Falabella
The smallest known

Falabella in history was
Sugar Dumpling, a mare
that weighed 30 lb
(13.6 kg) and stood
5 hands high.
The Falabella is the smallest of any domestic horse

and pony breed. It was produced by crossing local
Criollo horses with Shetlands and Thoroughbreds. ORiGiN Buenos Aires, Argentina
Producing small horses consistently, however, COlORs Most colors
led to inbreeding, which caused weaknesses in
the Falabella’s conformation. These horses are
too small to be ridden and are mostly kept as pets.
120 | HORSES
The largest stadium for chariot racing in

ancient Rome, the Circus Maximus could seat
250,000 people
LIGHT HORSES | 121
CHARIOT RACING
Chariot racing
was very popular
in ancient Rome,
where races were
held between teams
(or factiones). The four
Roman racing teams
were known by their
colors—red, white,
blue, and green.
Red and blue teams
can be seen in this
19th-century illustration
of a race at the
Circus Maximus.
122 | HORSES
HEAVY HORSES | 123
Heavy horses
Before the invention of steam engines,
heavy horses were the main source of
power and were used for transportation,
plowing, harvesting, and threshing. These
coldbloods usually measure 16.2 hands
or above and are bred for heavy draft
and farmwork.
Hauling
Because of their size and
strength, heavy horses are
still used to pull loads in
some areas, especially
those where the terrain is
unsuitable for machines.
124 | HEAVY HORSES
What is a heavy horse?

Heavy horses are large
draft breeds, suitable
for farmwork and for
hauling heavy loads,
such as logs. They are
often crossbred with
light breeds to develop
strong riding horses.
Anatomy
The typical heavy horse has a wide
body with a broad back. Its quarters
are wide and muscular, making it
very strong. Most heavy horses also
have feathering (long hair at the
hooves). This helps to protect
their legs and keeps them warm
in the cold environments where
they usually work.
WHAT IS A HEAVY HORSE? | 125
The power of a heavy

horse comes from
the large muscles
in its quarters that
allow it to pull very
heavy loads.
Brewer’s horse
Heavy horses played an important

role in the brewing industry in
the 1800s, particularly in the UK.
They were used for driving water
pumps, turning millstones, and
pulling wagons loaded with
beer barrels.
126 | HEAVY HoRSES
Heavy horses
foCuS oN... The typical heavy horse has strong muscles,
SHoeS heavy bones, and a short, broad back. This
Domesticated horses conformation makes it suitable for haulage
are shod with metal
shoes to protect and draft work, although heavy horses are
their hooves from sometimes ridden as well.
wear and tear.
North Swedish Horse
Compact and active, the North Swedish Horse is

Sweden’s only heavy horse breed. It is a powerful, tough
▲ Fullered (grooved) horse and can pull heavy loads. It is used for farm and
horseshoes are light forestry work as well as for riding and driving.
and give the horse a
better grip.
Large head
with long ears
▲ Horseshoes without a
groove are plain-stamped.
They are suitable for slow, size 15–15.2 hands
heavy draft work. ORiGiN North Sweden
COlORs Black, brown,
sorrel, gray, dun, palomino
HEAVY HORSES | 127
Jutland
Native to Denmark,
this horse and its ancestors
have been bred on the
Jutland Peninsula for
centuries. It is used in some areas for
farmwork and for hauling heavy loads.
size 15–16 hands

ORiGiN Jutland Peninsula, Denmark
COlORs Mostly sorrel; also black,
brown, roan
Thick, coarse
feathering
Noriker
The strong, sure-footed Noriker is

suitable for working in mountainous
areas. It is also used for hauling logs
in forests and draft work on farms.

ORiGiN Central Alps, Austria
COlORs Black, bay, sorrel,
gray, spotted Forelegs are
muscular with
large joints
128 | HEAVY HORSES
Schleswig Brabant
The Schleswig was developed in the Also known as the Belgian Heavy
19th century as a medium-sized draft horse Draft, the Brabant is one of the most
and was mainly used to pull buses and trams. influential heavy horse breeds. It was used
With an increased use of machines, its demand to develop several European draft breeds.
decreased over time. It is still used on farms Its calm nature makes it a popular horse.
and to haul logs and recreational vehicles
such as tourist carriages.
ORiGiN Belgium
COlORs
ORiGiN Germany Mostly bay,
COlORs Mostly sorrel; roan; also
also bay, gray sorrel, gray
Ardennais
Bred in the 19th century

for draft work on farms, the
Ardennais was also used in
World War I to carry guns
and ammunition. Today,
it is used in agriculture
and is bred for its meat.
Thick legs
covered with
heavy, coarse
feathering
HEAVY HORSES | 129
Boulonnais
Known for its stamina, the

Boulonnais can maintain a
steady speed over a long
distance. It was originally used in
the military, on farms, and for pulling carts,
but increased mechanization reduced the
demand for horses in these fields of work.
Today, it is bred mainly for its meat.

ORiGiN Boulogne, France
COlORs Mostly gray; also black, bay, sorrel Silky skin, with
prominent veins
Breton
A native horse of northwest France,

the Breton is used for draft work in French
vineyards. Its strength and stamina make it
ideal for agricultural work. It is also crossbred
to improve the quality of less developed horses.
size 15.1–16.1 hands size 15.1–16.1 hands

ORiGiN Ardennes, France, ORiGiN Black
and southeast Belgium Mountains, France
COlORs Mostly bay, roan; COlORs
also sorrel, gray Mostly sorrel;
also bay, roan
130 | HEAVY HORSES
Percheron
The calm-natured
Percheron is one
of the breeds used
to pull streetcars
in Disneyland in
the US.
Tough and good-natured, the Percheron is size 16–17.2 hands

mainly used in transportation and agriculture,
ORiGiN Normandy, France
and is in demand for its meat. In France, a
lighter type of this breed (the Postier) was COlORs Gray, black
developed to pull streetcars in Paris.
HEAVY HORSES | 131
Norman Cob
For centuries, the

Norman Cob has
been bred at stud
farms in Normandy. Due to
crossbreeding, today it is a heavier breed
than it originally was. However, it retains
its energetic trot, which makes it useful
for light draft work on farms.
size 15.3–16.3 hands Limbs are short

ORiGiN La Manche, Normandy, France and muscular
COlORs Mostly bay, sorrel; also gray
Auxois
Originally, the Auxois was used for

transportation and draft work. As demand
for this horse decreased due to mechanization,
its numbers reduced. Today, it is primarily used
to pull wagons and carriages for tourists and
is bred for its meat and milk.

ORiGiN France
COlORs Mostly bay, roan; also sorrel
Muscular thigh
with slender legs
132 | HEAVY HORSES
Poitevin
For centuries,
Poitevin mares have been
crossed with donkeys to
produce work mules. Their
large, wide feet are suited
to the marshland they inhabit.
size 16–17 hands

ORiGiN Poitou, France
COlORs Bay, black, dun, gray,
sorrel, roan
Italian Heavy Draft
Also known as the

Italian Agricultural Horse,
this breed was once used
extensively for heavy draft
work. However, mechanization
reduced the need for draft
horses, and today it is primarily
bred for its meat.
size 15–16 hands

ORiGiN Northern and central Italy
COlORs Mostly sorrel; also
bay, roan
HEAVY HORSES | 133
Suffolk Punch
This short-legged, broad-chested

horse was once used to pull heavy
guns during battles. It is immensely
powerful, but economical to keep,
since it requires less food than other
horses of its type and size. It is
used in areas with heavy clay soil,
and its lack of feathering makes it
easy to keep clean. Therefore, it
is suitable for heavy farmwork.

ORiGiN Suffolk, England
COlOR Sorrel
Shire
Known for its strength, the Shire

is one of the heaviest draft breeds.
This gentle horse is easy to handle,
despite its size. It has traditionally
been used by brewers to pull wagons
loaded with heavy barrels of beer. It
is now most often seen in shows
and plowing competitions.

ORiGiN Midlands, England
Deep girth
COlORs Black, brown, bay, gray
134 | HEAVY HORSES
Clydesdale
Used mainly for heavy draft work in urban areas, size 16.2 hands
Clydesdales have large, flat feet and a lively,
ORiGiN Lanarkshire, Scotland
high-stepping knee movement. Most have a
white blaze and white markings on the legs, COlORs Mostly bay, brown; also black, sorrel,
which may sometimes extend to the belly. They gray, roan
are mainly used for shows, farmwork, and riding.
HEAVY HORSES | 135
American Cream Draft Horse
Developed in the US, this rare breed is known for size 15–16 hands
its distinct color—a cream coat, pink skin, and ORiGiN US
amber eyes. It was mainly used as a draft breed,
COlOR Cream
but the mechanization of farmwork in the mid-20th
century greatly reduced its numbers. However,
efforts are being made to increase its population.
136 | HORSES
The first engines were compared to

the number of horses it would take to
pull the same load. Even today, a car
engine’s performance is measured in
“horsepower”
HEAVY HORSES | 137
Working horse
Before the invention of modern machinery, horses
did most of the heavy work on farms—it could take
30 horses to pull one combine harvester. Today,
most heavy horses are used in shows, but some
people, such as the Amish community in the US,
still use horses for farmwork.
138 | HORSES
TYPES | 139
Types
Horses can be classified by type as well as
breed. Classification as a type is based on
the functions that a horse performs, while
a horse is classified as a breed based on
its conformation. Often, a breed or type
is developed in different countries to do
a particular job. This means the horses
performing this job have similar traits.
Riding POnY
Because of its calm
nature and comfortable
riding paces, the riding
pony is suitable for
child riders.
140 | TYPES
Types
This category includes horses that are not purebred and do not
conform to any breed standard set by breed societies. They have
a set of characteristics that help them perform specific functions,
such as hunting. They may naturally be of a certain type, or bred
for a specific function by crossing suitable individual horses.
Cob
With short, powerful limbs, the Cob has a structure size 14.2–15.1 hands
that makes it suitable for carrying weight. Cobs are
ORiGiN Ireland and England
also often used as show horses in the UK, where
they are always hogged (their mane is shaved), COlORs All colors
as shown here.
TYPES | 141
Hunter
The physical features of a Hunter can vary size More than 14.2 hands
according to the region where it is ridden. For ORiGiN Ireland and UK
example, in an area with many natural obstacles,
COlORs All colors
such as hedges and streams, a horse with the
courage and athletic ability of the Thoroughbred
is most suitable. However, all Hunters have great
stamina, since they were developed to carry
riders across the countryside all day long,
following hounds. A typical hunter is bold
enough to jump over obstacles in its path.
Well-sloped shoulders
are ideal for jumping
142 | TYPES
Riding Pony
Developed by crossing ponies with small size Up to 14.2 hands

Thoroughbreds, this riding and show horse ORiGiN England
has the appearance of a pony but the
COlORs All colors
proportions and action of a Thoroughbred.
TYPES | 143
Hack
The typical
Hack is well-mannered
with balanced paces,
which makes this type
suitable for riding. Hacks used in shows
are often crossed with Thoroughbreds,
which are known for their elegance.
size Variable
origin England
Polo Pony
The most notable

feature of a Polo
Pony is its compact
frame. It has to be
fast, agile, and easy
to manuever. Thoroughbreds played
an important role in the development
of this type but the best Polo Ponies
come from Argentina, where they are
crossed with Criollos.
Strong limbs enable
quick turns and
size About 15.1 hands sudden stops
origin Argentina
gray, roan
144 | HORSES
TYPES | 145
Polo was first played by the

Persian cavalry, with as many as
100 players
on each team
PLAYING POLO
The game of polo
originated 2,500 years
ago in Persia (modern-
day Iran), from where it
spread to the rest of
Asia. The British
established the first
official polo club in
1862 in Kolkata, India,
and set the rules for
the modern game,
which is now played by
teams of four players.
Today, polo is played in
around 80 countries.
146 | HORSES
Famous horses
Mythical horses • Pegasus is a winged horse ridden
by the Greek warrior Bellerophon, who
• According to Norse mythology, defeated the Chimera—a creature with a
sleipnir is the eight-legged horse lion’s head, a goat’s body, and a serpent’s
of the god Odin. He carries his rider tail—in battle.
to Hel, land of the dead.
• According to Greek mythology, arion
• Uchchaihshravas is a seven- is a divine horse whose father is Poseidon,
headed flying horse in Indian mythology. the god of sea, storms, and horses, and
He is ridden by Indra, the king of heaven. whose mother is Demeter, the goddess
of harvest. Arion can speak like a human
• In Greek mythology, chiron, a and is extremely swift.
centaur (half-horse, half-man), is
revered for his knowledge of medicine • Kelpie, a water horse in Celtic mythology,
and astrology and considered to is said to haunt the lakes of Ireland and
be the teacher of Asclepius, the Scotland. According to legend, it drags
god of medicine. its victims under water and drowns them.
horses in literatUre • Joey

War Horse, a novel by Michael Morpurgo,
• Black Beauty tells the story of Joey, a horse taken by
Anna Sewell’s novel Black Beauty is about the British Army to France to fight in World
Black Beauty, a horse who narrates his own War I, and his previous owner Albert, who
story. He describes how he was happy and joins the army to try find him.
free when young, but how it all changes
when he is taken to London to pull cabs. • Black stallion
Black Stallion is the main character of
• Piebald The Black Stallion, a children’s book
The hero of National Velvet, a novel by series written by Walter Farley between
Enid Bagnold, is 14-year-old Velvet Brown, 1941 and 1989. This 10-book series
who rides her horse, Piebald, to victory tells of the many adventures of Black
in the Grand National steeplechase race. Stallion and his owner, Alec Ramsay.
FAMOUS HORSES | 147
record breakers Most wins

American Thoroughbred Kingston
Fastest horse (1884–1912) has won the greatest number
In 1945, Big Racket completed of races, with 89 victories between 1884
a quarter-mile (0.4 km) race in and 1894. In 1955, he was honored by
20.8 seconds at a speed of the United States Racing Hall of Fame.
43.2 mph (69.5 kph).
Most consecutive wins
Tallest and heaviest horse Camarero (1951–1956), a Thoroughbred
At a height of 21.2 hands, Mammoth— racehorse from Puerto Rico, had the
a Shire born in 1848 in the UK—holds highest number of consecutive wins—
the record for being both the tallest 56 races between 1953 and 1955.
horse and, at 3,360 lb (1,524 kg),
the heaviest horse. Highest jumper
On February 5, 1949, Huaso
Smallest horse The Green Monkey, an (1933–1961), a Chilean
Thumbelina, a dwarf American Thoroughbred Thoroughbred, jumped
miniature horse born in born in 2004, was sold an 8-ft- (2.47-m-) high
2001 in Missouri, stands for $16 million—the obstacle at Vina del Mar
just 4 hands high. highest price ever paid in Santiago, Chile. This is
for a horse. the highest jump that has
oldest horse ever been made by a horse.
A Shire named Old Billy, born
in 1760, lived to be 62 years Longest jumper
old, the oldest recorded age Something—who jumped 27½ ft
for a horse. The average lifespan (8.4 m) over water, in Johannesburg,
of a horse is about 26 years. South Africa, on April 25, 1975—holds
the record for the longest jump.
Longest mane
A California mare named Maude Oldest winners
had a mane 18 ft (5.5 m) long. The oldest horses to win a race
were three Thoroughbreds: Revenge
Longest tail at Shrewsbury, England, in 1790;
This record is held by an American Marksman at Ashford, England, in
Palomino named Chinook, whose 1826; and Jorrocks at Bathurst,
tail was 22 ft (6.7 m) long. Australia, in 1851.
148 | HORSES
All about horses

AmAziNg FActs A horse’s hoof grows about ½ in
(1 cm) per month.
As of 2012, there are about 75 million
horses in the world. In official records, the birthday of
all thoroughbreds in the northern
Horses cannot breathe through hemisphere is registered as January 1, and
their mouths because a flap of tissue that of all horses in the southern hemisphere
blocks the pharynx—the cavity behind the as August 1. This makes it easier to keep
nose that connects the nose and mouth. breeding, racing, and showing records.
The average horse’s heart weighs around The term “horsepower” (hp) was
8½ lb (3.9 kg)—that is 12 times the coined by the Scottish engineer James Watt
weight of an adult human’s heart. to compare the pulling power of a steam
engine with that of draft horses. One
An average 1,000 lb (450 kg) horse hp is the power required to carry a weight
drinks around 12 gallons (45 liters) of 165 lb (75 kg) over a distance of 3¼ ft
of water every day—that is 24 times as (1 m) in 1 second.
much as the average human.
The age of a horse can be
The Bashkir is claimed to estimated by looking at its teeth,
be the only hypoallergenic Equinophobia is the since its three pairs of incisors
breed, which means that fear of horses. The name appear at different times. Also,
comes from the Greek
even people allergic to over time, the shape of the
word phobos, meaning
other horses can ride it. fear, and the Latin
incisor teeth changes from oval
Studies suggest that this word equus, which to round, then triangular, and
is because the Bashkir’s means horse. finally square.
hair does not contain the
protein that causes There are around 400 different
allergic reactions. breeds of the domestic horse.
Hair from horses’ tails is Horses use their tail to swat flies
used for stringing the bows of as well as to communicate with
musical instruments, such as cellos. each other.
ALL ABOUT HORSES | 149
Famous stud Farms • state stud Celle, Germany

The first stud farms were set up in Europe Founded in 1735 by King George II of
in the 12th century to breed horses for the Britain, this is the main breeding farm
royal stables and the military. Today, some of the Hanoverian.
stud farms are owned by governments,
while others are privately owned. • Kladruby stud, Czech republic
One of the oldest breeding farms in the
• the National stud, UK world, this stud farm has been producing
This is one of the main Thoroughbred stud the Kladruber since it was founded in
farms in England. It was established in 1916. 1597 by Emperor Rudolph II (1576–1612).
• Le Pin, France • royal Jordanian stud, Jordan

Set up in 1715 as a royal stud farm, it is the Founded by King Abdullah I (1921–1946),
oldest of the 20 national breeding farms in this is one of the main stud farms in the
France. Its main breeds are Thoroughbred, Middle East for breeding Arabs.
Percheron, Selle Francais, and French Trotter.
• Calumet Farm, Kentucky
• Piber Federal stud, austria This Thoroughbred stud farm was set
Founded in 1798, this famous farm produces up in 1928. It is one of the most famous
Lipizzaners, some of which are trained at the farms in the Bluegrass Country horse-
Spanish Riding School in Vienna, Austria. breeding region of the state of Kentucky.
Horse Food • Hay

The natural diet of horses is grass, and Fed in bulk as a substitute for grass, hay,
they spend much of their time feeding. unlike most foodstuffs, is usually available
Working horses are given additional to horses at all times, whether in a stable
food to provide them with energy, as or living out in winter.
are growing horses. Some of the most
common feeds given to horses have • Complete feeds
been mentioned below. These are formulated to provide
a balanced diet to horses. There
• Grains are several types of complete feed.
Oats are the grain most commonly fed to For example, racehorse feeds are
horses, since they have a high fiber content made from a very different recipe
and are easily digestible. than pony feeds.
150 | HORSES
Glossary Domestication
The taming of animals
by humans who control
Evolution The
process by which
a species may
their breeding to produce change partially
Action The way Bridle A type of horses with particular or completely
a horse moves. headgear, usually characteristics. over many
made of leather, generations.
Ambling A with a metal bit Draft Work
specialized gait to which the reins that involves pulling Extinct When a
in which the horse are attached. something heavy, species has no
performs a smooth especially vehicles, living members,
four-beat leg Cannon The bone plows, or other so it has died out.
movement. between the knee farm machines.
and the fetlock of Feathering Abundant
Bareback Riding a hoofed animal. Dressage A kind long hair that grows
an unsaddled horse. of competition in on the fetlocks and
Carriage horse A which a horse’s covers the hooves.
Brand mark A horse used to pull training and
mark made on wheeled vehicles, obedience are Feral horses
the coat of an such as carriages. tested. The horse Domesticated horses
animal by humans and its rider are that have returned to
to identify it. Classical riding judged on the living in the wild.
A style of riding in basis of certain
Breed A consistent which the rider is movements that Fetlock The joint
variety of horse in complete harmony they perform. between the cannon
produced by with the horse, and the foot of
breeding similar controlling it with Driving An activity a horse.
types of horse minimal movement. in which a horse is
with one another. attached to a vehicle— Flehmen The curling
Coldblood A horse such as a wagon, of the upper lips by
Breed society from the cold, northern cart, or carriage— certain animals to
An organization regions of the world. in order to pull it. examine a smell
dedicated to a picked up by
particular breed. Conformation Endangered At the the nose.
It defines the The proportions risk of extinction.
breed standard— and shape of the Foal A horse,
the specifications skeletal structure Equestrian Related or member of
that allow an animal and the muscle to horse riding. the horse family,
to be classified as development that is less than
that breed. It also of a horse. Equidae The one year old.
records all important horse family,
dates, news, and Cowboy A which includes Fullering A groove
activities involving person, usually horses, zebras, on the underside
that breed. on horseback, who and donkeys. of a horse’s shoe.
herds and looks
Breeding The after cattle. Eventing A Gait The pace of a
mating of a riding competition horse—walk, trot,
male and female Crossbreeding involving dressage, canter, and gallop
animal to produce The mating of two show jumping, and are the natural gaits
offspring. different breeds. cross-country. of most horses.
GLOSSARY | 151
Girth The In-breeding Quarters The area Stallion A male

circumference of The mating of above the hind legs horse that is four
a horse, measured closely related of an animal that years old or more.
behind the withers animals. It can forms the hips.
and around the result in genetic Steppe A large
deepest part of deformities. Ranch A large area of grassland
the body. farm where cattle, or semidesert
Mare A female horses, and other without any trees.
Grooming Cleaning member of the horse animals are bred.
a horse’s body family that is four Stirrups Each pair
and feet. years old or more. Rein A long strap of rings on either
attached to a horse’s side of a saddle,
Hand A unit used Markings Natural bridle, used to guide it attached to it by
to measure the or human-made while riding or driving. a strap. They have
height of a horse. marks on an flat bases to support
A horse’s is measured animal’s coat. Saddle A seat, usually the rider’s feet.
from the ground to made of leather, put
the highest point of Marshland A on the back of an Stud A stallion
the withers. One low-lying area that animal for the rider used for breeding.
hand is equal to remains flooded to sit on.
4 in (10.16 cm). or muddy throughout Stud farm A place
the year. Selective breeding where horses are bred.
Harness A set The process by
of straps with Moorland An which domesticated Type A classification of
which an animal uncultivated hilly area. animals with desirable horses according to the
is attached to a traits are bred with activity they are suitable
vehicle, such as Muzzle The part of the each other by humans for, rather than their
a cart or carriage. horse’s head made up so that those traits physical features.
of the jaws and nose. are passed on
Haulage An activity to their offspring. Veterinarian A doctor
involving pulling Pack animal An This may be done who treats animals.
logs or other animal used to to develop a new
heavy objects. carry loads rather breed or to improve Warmblood A
than a rider. certain features in horse produced
Hock A joint existing breeds. by crossbreeding
on the hind leg Play-fighting An a hotblood and a
of a horse. It is activity where animals Show horse A type coldblood.
the equivalent fight with each other of horse shown in
of the human ankle. as a game, without riding classes, such Western riding A
the intention of hurting as cobs, hacks, style of horseback
Horseshoe A shaped one another. and hunters. riding used by cowboys
shoe attached to the in the US in which
outer edge of a horse’s Primitive Something Show jumping A the rider controls the
hoof to protect it. Most preserved from an competition sport horse with one hand,
horseshoes are made earlier time. in which a horse leaving the other free
of metal. jumps a set course to hold equipment,
Purebred A horse of fences in an arena such as a lasso.
Hotblood A horse descended from a and collects faults if
that originated in line of horses of the it refuses or knocks Withers The top of
the desert areas. same breed. down a jump. a horse’s shoulders.
152 | HORSES
Index
A Batak 48
battle horses 16, 62
Chincoteague Pony 57
Chiron 146
acquired markings 9 Bavarian Warmblood Circus Maximus 120–1
action 150 76–7 classical riding 150
age 147, 148 behavior 22–3 Cleveland Bay 71
agricultural work 17, 123, Belgian Warmblood 76 Clydesdale 134
124, 136–7 Big Racket 147 coats
Akhal-Teke 96–7 Black Beauty 146 colors 6–7
Alexander the Great 65 Black Stallion 146 grooming 30
allergies to horses 148 Boulonnais 129 Cob 140
Alter-Real 83 Brabant 128 coldbloods 15, 123, 150
amazing facts 148 brand marks 9, 150 Colorado Ranger 112
ambling 20, 150 breed, classification by colors 6–7
American Cream Draft Horse 139 communication 22–3, 148
135 breed societies 150 complete feeds 149
American Shetland 55 breeding 4, 14, 149, conformation 5, 150
anatomy 4–5, 148 150, 151 Connemara 33
heavy horses 124–5 Breton 129 cow hocks 5
light horses 62–3 brewer’s horses 125 cowboys 61, 110–11,
ponies 28 bridles 150 150
Andalucian 84 bronc riding 110–11 Criollo 118
Anglo-Arab 72 brushing 30 crossbreeding 13, 15, 61,
Appaloosa 7, 106 Bucephalus 65 73, 124, 140, 150
Araappaloosa 109 Budenny 97 Czechoslovakian Warmblood
Arab 102 95
Ardennais 128–9
C
Ariégeois 43
Arion 146 Calumet Farm (Kentucky)
D
Australian Pony 54 149 Dales 37
Australian Stock Horse Camarero 147 Danish Warmblood 67
104–5 Camargue 42–3 Dartmoor 29, 40–1
Auxois 131 Campolina 117 desert 96–7
cannons 4, 150 dishing 5
B cantering 20–1
carriages, horse-drawn 17,
Døle Gudbrandsdal 65
domestic horses 13,
Babieca 65 62, 150 14–15
Barb 91 Caspian 47 domestication 4, 13, 150
bareback riding 150 Celts 78–9 Don 99
Bashkir 46, 148 chariot racing 120–1 donkeys 13
INDEX | 153
draft work 17, 123, Freiberger 85 hocks 5, 151

124, 126, 150 French Trotter 84 Hokkaido Pony 53
dressage 18, 19, 92–3, Friesian 75 Holstein 80
150 fullering 150 hooves 4
driving 17, 150 Furioso 87 care of 30
Dutch Warmblood 74 colors 9
G evolution 11
E gaits 20–1, 151
growth of 148
horse family 12–13
ears 23 Galiceno 56 horse races 19, 24–5, 58–9,
El Cid 65 galloping 20–1 62, 120–1, 147
endangered species 150 Gelderlander 74 horsepower 136–7, 148
Epona 79 girth 5, 151 horseshoes 126, 151
Equidae 12–13, 150 Gotland 31 hotbloods 15, 151
equinophobia 148 grains 149 Huaso 147
Equus 11 Grand Annual (Australia) Huçul 33
Eriskay 34 24 Hunter 141
eventing 18, 150 Green Monkey 147 hypoallergenic horses 148
evolution 10–11, 150 Groningen 75 Hyracotherium 10, 11
Exmoor 40 grooming 30, 151
extinction 150
eyes 23
mutual 23
gymkhanas 18
I
Icelandic Horse 30
F H in-breeding 119, 151
Industrial Revolution 16
face markings 8 Hack 143 Irish Draft 69
Falabella 119 Hackney Horse 70 Irish Hunter 69
famous horses 146–7 Hackney Pony 38 Italian Heavy Draft 132
faults, conformation 5 Haflinger 29, 32
feathering 150
Fell 37
hand (measurement) 4, 151
Hanoverian 76
J
feral horses 150 harness racing 19, 62 Java Pony 52
festivals 18 harnesses 151 Joey 146
fetlocks 4, 150 harvesting 123 Jorrocks 147
Finnish Horse 66–7 haulage 16, 123, 124, 126, jousting 18
Fjord 29, 31 136, 151 Jutland 127
flehmen 23, 150 hearing 23
foals 150
food 149
heavy horses 15, 122–37
anatomy 124–5
K
fox trot 20 herds 22 Kabardin 98
Frederiksborg 67 Highland 35 Karabakh 95
freeze marks 9 hinnies 13 Kathiawari 103
154 | HORSES
Kelpie 146 Morab 113 plowing 123, 136–7

Kingston 147 Morgan 112 Poitevin 132
Kladruber 94 mules 13 police horses 16–17
Kladruby Stud (Czech Murgese 88 polo 18, 144–5
Republic) 149 muzzles 4, 151 Polo Pony 138, 143
Knabstrup 66 mythology 146 ponies 14, 26–59
Konik 32 anatomy 28
N breeds 29
L National Stud (UK) 149
Pony of the Americas 56
Pony Express 44–5
Landais 42 New Forest Pony 38 pony trekking 27
Le Pin (France) 149 Newfoundland Pony Pottok 42
leg markings 9 57 primitive markings 9
legendary horses 64–5 Nonius 87 Przewalski’s horse 14
light horses 14, 60–121 Noriker 127 purebred 151
anatomy 62–3 Norman Cob 131
Lipizzaner 6, 90, 92–3
literature 146
North Star 87
North Swedish 126
Q
Lokai 104 Quarter Horse 108
Lundy Pony 39
Lusitano 83
O quarters 4, 151
Old Billy 147

R
M Oldenburg 81
Orlov Trotter 100 ranches 151
machinery, horse-driven 16, record breakers 147
125, 136–7
mail services 44–5
P reins 151
Revenge 147
Mammoth 147 pacing 20 Rhinelander 82
manes pack animals 29, 151 Riding Pony 139, 142
grooming 30 Palomino 7, 107 Rocky Mountain Horse
longest 147 Pegasus 146 116
Maremmana 89 Percheron 130 rodeos 110–11
mares 151 performance events 19 Rome, ancient 120–1
markings 8–9, 151 Peruvian Paso 116–17 Royal Jordanian Stud 149
Marksman 147 Piber Federal Stud (Austria) running walk 20
Marwari 103 149 Russian Trotter 101
Maude 147 piebald 146
Mecklenburger 80–1
Merychippus 10, 11
pigeon toes 5
Pilohippus 11
S
Mesohippus 10 Pindos Pony 47 saddles 151
Miohippus 10 Pinto 109 Salerno 88
Missouri Fox Trotter 20, 105 play-fighting 22, 151 Sandalwood Pony 50
INDEX | 155
Sanfratellano 89 Tennessee Walking Horse white horses 78–9

Schleswig 128 20, 114 Wielkopolski 68
selective breeding 151 tent pegging 18–19 wild horses 14
Selle Français 85 Tersk 98 withers 4, 63, 151
Shagya Arab 86 Thoroughbred 5, 73, 147, work horses 16–17, 29, 123,
Shetland 35, 58–9 148 136–7
Shetland Pony Grand National threshing 123 Wurttemburg 82–3
58–9 Thumbelina 147
Shire 133, 147
shoes 126
Tibetan Pony 49
Timor 50
Z
show horses 151 Tokara Pony 53 zebras 12
show jumping 18, 151 Trakehner 69
skeleton 4 transportation 16–17, 62
Skyrian Horse 46 treats 149
Sleipnir 146 trotting 20–1
Something 147 types, classification by 14,
Sorraia 41 138–45, 151
Spanish Riding School
(Vienna) 92–3
speed 20, 147
U
splay feet 5 Uchchaihshravas 146
sport horses 18–19, 62, 144–5 Uffington White Horse
stallions 151 78–9
Standardbred 115
State Stud Celle (Germany) 149
steeplechasing 24–5
V
stirrups 151 vaulting 19
stud farms 149, 151 Velká pardubická 24–5
studs 151 vision 23
Suffolk Punch 133
Sugar Dumpling 119
Sumba Pony 51
W
sway back 5 walking 20–1
Swedish Warmblood 64 warmbloods 15, 151
water 148
T Welsh Cob 70
Welsh Mountain Pony
tails 36
grooming 30 Welsh Pony 36–7
hair from 148 western riding 61, 110–11,
longest 147 151
teeth 148 Westphalian 77
156 | HORSES
Acknowledgments
Dorling Kindersley would like to thank: Gulin / The Image Bank (bc). 62 Alamy Barrett. 135 Dreamstime.com: Nancy
Monica Byles for proofreading; Helen Images: Ilene MacDonald (bl). 62–63 Kennedy. 136–137 Corbis: Kevin
Peters for indexing; Saloni Talwar and Alamy Images: Juniors Bildarchiv GmbH. Fleming. 138 Fotolia: Samuel René
Neha Chaudhary for editorial assistance; 64 Getty Images: De Agostini (b). 66–67 Halifax. 139 fotoLibra : Jenny Brice (bc).
and Isha Nagar for design assistance. Alamy Images: Blickwinkel (tc). 68 140 Bob Langrish: (cb). 144–145 Getty
Alamy Images: Juniors Bildarchiv GmbH. Images: Andrew Redington.
The publisher would like to thank the 71 Corbis: Kit Houghton. 72
following for their kind permission to Dreamstime.com: Anduin230. 73 Getty Jacket images: Front: Dreamstime.
reproduce their photographs: Images: Claver Carroll / Photolibrary. 76 com: Terry Alexander clb/ (White Face),
Dreamstime.com: Isselee (tl). 76–77 Martina Berg crb/ (Auxois (draft horse)),
(Key: a-above; b-below/bottom; c-center; Alamy Images: Juniors Bildarchiv GmbH Jean-louis Bouzou tc/ (Rusty horse
f-far; l-left; r-right; t-top) (t). 78–79 Alamy Images: Skyscan shoes); Getty Images: Darrell Gulin / The
Photolibrary. 80–81 Alamy Images: Image Bank tl/ (Cowboys Riding), Indigo
1 Dreamstime.com: Isselee. 2–3 Alamy Juniors Bildarchiv GmbH (t). 82–83 cr/ (Wedding of Katie Percy and Patrick
Images: Juniors Bildarchiv GmbH. 5 Bob Alamy Images: Juniors Bildarchiv GmbH Valentine); Spine: Dreamstime.com:
Langrish: (cl, cr, bc, br). 8 Dreamstime. (bc). 85 Alamy Images: Juniors Anastasia Shapochkina t.
com: Terry Alexander (bl). 9 Bob Bildarchiv GmbH (tr). 86 Alamy Images:
Langrish: (tr). 13 Dreamstime.com: Juniors Bildarchiv GmbH. 89 Corbis: Kit All other images © Dorling Kindersley
Eltoro69 (br). 14 Alamy Images: Juniors Houghton (tl). 90 Dreamstime.com:
Bildarchiv GmbH (cl, br). 15 Alamy Dinozzo. 91 Corbis: Kit Houghton. 92–93 For further information see:
Images: Juniors Bildarchiv GmbH (tc). Getty Images: Chris Jackson. 94 www.dkimages.com
Corbis: Kit Houghton (tr). Dreamstime. Dreamstime.com: Viktoria Makarova. 95
com: Carolyne Pehora (b). 16–17 Corbis: Bob Langrish: (br). 96–97 Dreamstime.
Mike Kemp / In Pictures. 17 Alamy com: Alexia Khruscheva. 98
Images: Kevin Britland (tr). Getty Dreamstime.com: Viktoria Makarova (tl).
Images: Indigo (br). 18 Alamy Images: 99 Dreamstime.com: Viktoria Makarova.
Mattphoto (cl). 18–19 Corbis: Ahmad 100 Dreamstime.com: Yulia Chupina.
Sidique / Xinhua Press (c). 19 102 Dreamstime.com: Olga Itina. 103
Dreamstime.com: Tomas Hajek (br). Alamy Images: Juniors Bildarchiv GmbH
Getty Images: Alan Crowhurst (tr). 20 (bl). 104–105 Alamy Images: Juniors
Alamy Images: Juniors Bildarchiv GmbH. Bildarchiv GmbH (t). 106 Dreamstime.
22 Alamy Images: Juniors Bildarchiv com: Isselee. 107 Dreamstime.com:
GmbH. 23 Alamy Images: Juniors Maria Itina. 109 Alamy Images: Juniors
Bildarchiv GmbH (tr). Dreamstime.com: Bildarchiv GmbH (br). 110–111 Getty
Herman Nel (br); Pavlos Rekas (cl). 24–25 Images: George Rose. 114 Alamy
Corbis: Petr Josek / Reuters. 26 Getty Images: Juniors Bildarchiv GmbH.
Images: Dominique Walterson / Flickr. 27 116–117 Alamy Images: Only Horses
Corbis: Destinations (bc). 28–29 Alamy Tbk (b). 117 Bob Langrish: (tr). 118
Images: Juniors Bildarchiv GmbH. 29 Corbis: Kit Houghton. 120–121 Alamy
Corbis: Kit Houghton (tr). 36–37 Corbis: Images: North Wind Picture Archives.
(b). 40–41 Bob Langrish: (t). 42 Fotolia: 122 Alamy Images: Mark J. Barrett. 123
CallallooAlexis (tl). 42–43 Dreamstime. Alamy Images: Stefan Sollfors (bc).
com: Roberto Cerruti (t). 44–45 Corbis: 124–125 Alamy Images: Juniors
Bettmann. 46 Dreamstime.com: Olga Bildarchiv GmbH. 125 Alamy Images:
Itina (tl). 47 Corbis: Kit Houghton (tr). 49 Mark J. Barrett (tc). 126 Alamy Images:
Alamy Images: Tom Salyer. 51 Bob Ingemar Edfalk (br). Dreamstime.com:
Langrish. 52 Bob Langrish. 53 Bob Jean-louis Bouzou (clb); Verity Johnson
Langrish: (br). 55 Corbis: Kit Houghton. (cla). 128 Alamy Images: Only Horses
57 Alamy Images: John Sylvester (bl). Tbk (bl). 130 Getty Images: Alain Jocard
58–59 Bob Langrish. 60 Alamy Images: / AFP. 131 Dreamstime.com: Martina
Blickwinkel. 61 Getty Images: Darrell Berg (bl). 134 Alamy Images: Mark J.

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FACTS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

122 heavy horses

146 Famous horses

Scales and sizes

A sway back is when Cow hocks occur

When the forelegs

A golden brown Liver sorrel

Gray is black skin with a mixture

A black and white horse is

Bay is a reddish brown Dun is a brown-gray Palomino is a golden, Dapple gray is

White face Snip Stripe

Primitive markings Dorsal

Hoof colors A brand can also

Merychippus (25–20 mya)

Hyracotherium Mesohippus Miohippus Merychippus

Evolution of thE hoof

Pliohippus Equus (5 mya–present)

The horse family

The domestic horse

Hotbloods, coldbloods, and warmbloods

Best range Blind spot Best vision where ranges

The Velká pardubická (Czech Republic)

a pony because of its proportions

Despite their small size, ponies are strong

size 12.3–14.2 hands

Found on the Swedish

size 11.1–12.3 hands

The Fjord has several primitive

size 13.2–14.2 hands

The Konik has lived in

size 12.3–13.3 hands

A mountain pony, the Haflinger

size 13.2–14.3 hands

The Huçul, also

size About 13.3 hands

size 12.2–14.2 hands

Due to crossbreeding, the number of Eriskay size 12–13.2 hands

The tough Highland has lived

size 13–14.2 hands

Despite its small size,

size Up to 10.2 hands

Welsh Mountain Pony

This pony has the highest

size Up to 12 hands Compact

The Welsh Pony has the same small, pointed ears

size Up to 13.2 hands

size 14–14.2 hands

Like the Dales, the Fell was earlier used

First bred in the 1880s, the

size 12.2–14 hands

New Forest Pony

The New Forest Pony

size Up to 14.2 hands

This is a fairly recent breed of pony, first size Up to 13.2 hands

For centuries, the wild, hilly area where this

size Up to 12.2 hands

Deep girth size 11.2–12.3 hands

A descendant of the first

The Landais was originally a semi-wild