Here’s the Ultimate Guide to the Best Horse Breeds
Like a perfectly worn-in pair of cowboy boots, no horse breed is one size fits all. Depending on whether you're a new rider, a skilled equestrian, or a rancher like Ladd Drummond, finding the right type of horse to bring into your life is crucial. On the one hand, hot-blooded breeds such as thoroughbreds possess abundant energy, making them ideal for racing. Contrarily, cold-blooded horses like Clydesdales are renowned for their placid temperament. For a mix of the two, warm-blooded horses make for superb riding horses that are well-suited even for beginners.
At the Drummond Ranch, there are mustangs aplenty, having found sanctuary there since 20o3. And despite being a self-proclaimed "non-horsey girl," Ree is extremely keen on these sure-footed steeds. In addition to the wild horses on the ranch, the Drummonds have American Quarter Horses, which they ride for ranch work: "Despite their tendency to eat my sunflowers, horses are a huge part of our family," Ree says. Plus they have pretty cute names—L.B., Old Yeller, Mighty Mouse, and Tigger, to name a few. Even if you don't live on a working ranch, you might consider welcoming a horse into your own family. Read on for the 12 best options!
Love horses? Read more:
American Quarter Horse
Well known for their stellar "cow sense," these tough workhorses are great for herding cows. Take its status as the ranch horse of choice on the Drummond Ranch as proof! These versatile horses, which are the oldest and most popular breed in the U.S., can also serve as racing and family horses as well.
Mustang
Sure-footed and speedy, this hardy horse breed can be found across the western United States—including on the Drummond Ranch! Their ability to thrive in harsh environments means they can handle the demands of long days and tough work. They're also a symbol of freedom, fitting for the word that mustang derives from, mustengo, which means "stray horse."
Morgan
The Morgan is one of the oldest horse breeds in the U.S., dating back to the late 1700s. Since then, they've been bred with different bloodlines, including thoroughbred and Arabian breeds, to yield the diverse, athletic breed we see today. They're well suited for ranch work but also new riders and families.
Arabian
The recorded history of this ancient breed goes back to 3000 B.C., when the Bedouin tribes in the Arab peninsula often used them for transportation. Hot-blooded Arabians made their way to the U.S. in the 1700s and have been beloved for their power and grace ever since. They're particularly good choices for endurance riders.
Thoroughbred
Although "thoroughbred" is often used to indicate a purebred horse, it actually refers to a specific breed. This horse is known for its athleticism, so it's no wonder it was developed for racing and jumping in the United Kingdom! Just keep in mind the spirited breed is hot-blooded, and therefore not a beginner's best friend.
Clydesdale
This Scottish breed was originally a draft horse, meaning it carried heavy loads. Brought to North America in the 1800s, it has a few trademark features, including feathering around the legs and an above-average size. Even though their stature might intimidate new riders, cold-blooded Clydesdales are actually quite gentle and a great choice for families.
Friesian Horse
This breed comes from the Dutch province of Friesland—it was originally a medieval war horse! Today the horse is known for its dramatic black mane and tail. It's typically used for dressage and pulling carriages.
Paint
This breed, which boasts cow-like splotches in black or brown, is typically gentle, making it well-suited to riders of many experience levels. Legend has it this the breed is a descendant of a sorrel-and-white stallion brought to the U.S. by Spanish explorer Hernando Cortes.
Appaloosa
Consider this breed the Dalmatian of horses: It's known for its trademark black spots! Spanish explorers brought its predecessors to North America in the early 1600s, and it became a hit with the Nez Perce tribe in the Northwest. The breed was almost lost when the U.S. government tried to take over Native American land, but by the 1930s it came to prominence once again. A gentle horse, it's good for beginning equestrians and families.
Icelandic
These beautiful horses are often quite small, but what they lack in size they make up for in pluck—they can famously thrive in the harshest of conditions. Thanks to their stature and sure-footedness, Icelandic horses are a good choice for beginning equestrians.
Andalusian
Also known as a Pure Spanish Horse, this breed is known for its long, elegant mane and fiery energy. A descendant of Spanish and Portuguese Iberian horses, this hot-blooded horse is extremely agile, making it right at home in the dressage ring. Because of its commanding presence, it's also a popular choice for parades. The cons of that beautiful mane: It's not too easy to groom!
Tennessee Walker
This breed hails from—no surprises here—Tennessee! Known for its effortless gait, it would easily conquer the rocky terrain of Drummond Ranch. Equestrians of all skill levels who are looking for a smooth ride will find just that in this breed.
You Might Also Like
