Horse Breeds
Viewing Abaco Barb:
Recent genetic tests have shown that the Abaco Barb has the purest Spanish Barb blood of any related breed to be found today. Unfortunately, finding it is getting harder; at the time of this writing, only six of the original herd of 200 remain. Abaco Barbs are found in only one place, the island of Abaco in the Caribbean Sea. In the past, this breed was distinguished, among many other traits, by its commonly "splashed white" pattern, which is very rare in other breeds. The Abaco is a small horse, extremely rugged, with excellent bone and stamina; it is the rarest horse breed on Earth and considered "Critically Endangered." It ranges in height from 13.2-14.2hh.
Viewing Akhal-Teke:
The Akhal-Teke is a national emblem of the country Turkmenistan in Central Asia. A very old breed (at least 3000 years) that was bred for the desert. The coat often has a gold "shimmer" which may have helped for camouflage in the hot desert. The Akhal-Teke is most known for its speed, stamina, and trainability.
Viewing Alter Real:
Originating in Portugal in 1748, the Alter Real got its name from the town it originated from, Alter, and the fact that real is Portuguese for "royal". Mainly of Andalusian blood, the Alter Real faced extinction when, in the 19th century, Napoleon's troops stole most of the stock and then foreign breeds were introduced, which almost ruined the breed. Reintroducing Andalusians brought the breed back to its current splendor. Bred mainly for use in high school dressage, the Alter Real is an elegant, courageous breed, with high, showy action. It ranges in height from 15-16.1hh.
Viewing American Cream Draft:
The American Cream Draft was entirely developed from within the United States. The breed is always cream with pink skin and amber or hazel eyes. Also known for its excellent temperament, good disposition and ease in handling, the American Cream is most frequently used for pleasure driving and riding as well as carriage driving, parade hitches and farm work. This breed ranges from 15-16.3hh.
Viewing American Mustang:
The Mustang is the wild horse of the North American west left by the Spanish in the late 1600's. The Native Americans began using the horse as their main mode of transportation and would often steal the horses from the Spaniards. At one point there were around 2 million wild horses. The breed is very hardy and clever which helps them adapt well to their environment. They come in a variety of colors and though the average height is around 14 hands, they can range from 13 to 16 hands high.
Viewing American Paint:
The American Paint is a versatile and athletic breed. Originating from the Quarter Horse and Thoroughbred, the Paint was believed to possess magical abilities by the Native Americans because of their coloring. The Paint is a great ranch horse and is great for cattle driving and barrel racing.
Viewing American Saddlebred:
Originating in Kentucky in the United States, the Saddlebred is a highly intelligent breed that is very people oriented. All are born with three gaits, the walk, trot and canter, but most can be easily trained to do two others: the slow-gait and rack. They carry themselves with elegance and do well at dressage and jumping.
Viewing American White:
The American White horse began with a brown-eyed white stallion named Old King, who was bred to Morgan mares. After a while, brown-eyed white horses of other breeds were added, and a registry formed. Eventually, Creme (cremello) horses were also registered. White horses must have coats of pure white, with pink skin and brown or hazel eyes; cremellos must have pink skin and blue eyes. The horses come in three types: Saddle Horse, Hunter and Stock Horse. They generally stand between 15 and 16.2hh depending upon their breed background.
Viewing Andalusian
The Andalusian is an elegant, Spanish breed and is considered to be one of the purest in the world. It is visually stunning to watch with its well arched neck and graceful, high-stepping action. Often used by royalty in Europe, the Andalusian is considered a proud and docile breed. It has been used for many activities though its superb balance lends it to dressage and show jumping along with cattle work.
Viewing Anglo-Arabian:
Arabian-Thoroughbred crosses are bred all over the world, but the French have made such a specialty of breeding Anglo-Arabs that the cross is, with the Selle Francais, considered one of the two great French sport horses. The Anglo-Arab is faster than the Arabian and steadier in temperament than the Thoroughbred; the result of the cross is a sturdy, enduring hot-blooded horse. In France the horse is ridden to hounds, raced and shown in jumping, cross-country and dressage. They are popular all-purpose riding horses as well. They can come in any color and pattern and stand between 15 and 16hh.
Viewing Appaloosa:
The Appaloosa was originally bred by the Nez Perce Indian tribe in Northwest United States. They selectively bred for endurance, speed and strength. It is believed the Nez Perce were the only tribe to selectively breed horses. The Appaloosa has striped hooves and is known for its distinctive, spotted look.
Viewing Appendix Quarter Horse:
"Appendix" refers to the appendix of the Quarter Horse Stud book, not to a part of the horse. This appendix is reserved for Thoroughbred/Quarter Horse crosses. Crossing these two breeds dates back to the time of the American Revolutionary War, when quarter mile racing was extremely popular and the Thoroughbred sire Janus was crossed with what were then called "Colonial" mares. Thoroughbred blood is still used, especially in racing Quarter Horses, most notably with the addition of "Three Bars," one of the greatest racing quarter horse sires. Today Appendix horses may include "breeding stock" (non-pinto) paint blood as well as Thoroughbred. Otherwise, the horses are quite Quarter Horse in character and, to a large extent, in type. They range in height from 14-16.2hh.
Viewing Arabian:
The Arabian's origin is in the Arabian peninsula thousands of years ago and has influenced many other breeds. It was a very important horse to the nomadic Bedouin people of the Middle East desert. They often sheltered the horse inside the family tent. This close human contact gave the Arab a willingness to please. Its finely chiseled head makes it easily recognizable along with its high tail carriage. This beautiful, spirited breed is considered to be very intelligent and fast with incredibly high endurance. It is also able to withstand harsh conditions because of its origins in the desert.
Viewing Ardennais:
Originating in the region of France and Belgium, the Ardennais is the oldest known draft breed, believed to be over 2000 years old. A docile and hard working breed, it is most frequently used for agricultural work. Back in the 19th century, Napoleon used the breed to haul artillery into Russia. Arabian blood was added at that time to increase endurance. Later, Brabant and Belgian blood was added, increasing the strength and size even more. The Ardennais is heavily boned and well muscled yet agile for its size, making it an ideal breed for work on rough terrain and hilly land. This breed ranges from 14.3 to 16 hh and is only found on lava.
Viewing Argentine Polo Pony:
The Polo "pony" is not a breed of horse but a type, and the Argentinians, master horse breeders and fanatical polo players, have developed possibly the world's best. There is Criollo, Andalusian, Thoroughbred and Barb blood there, and who knows what else, resulting in a very intelligent, swift and extremely agile horse who learns the game as well as his rider. These horses are not tall but are compact and quick. All colors are permitted and the rare "Manchado" type spotting appears here. The Argentine Polo Pony ranges in height from 14-16hh.
Viewing Australian Brumby:
Many consider the Australian Brumby a national icon of Australia where as others consider them a pest. The Brumby is a wild horse that roams Australia and was originally imported in the late 1700's to help in the exploration of the country. These were left and have now become wild to roam in herds, much like North America's Mustang. There are both positive and negative aspects of these wild herds, mostly involving the land. They can help dig up water when it's dry that also waters other wildlife and enhance some tourism in the country, but they also invade cattle grazing ground and damage fragile plants. Most roam free, but some are used as stock horses.
Viewing Australian Stock Horse:
The Australian Stock Horse was originally brought to Australia, then the colony of N.S.W., in 1788. Because of the unknown, untamed land the horses came to, they needed to be strong, reliable, have good stamina and temperament. These characteristics were selected for during the early years of the breed currently making it considered one of the most versatile horses in the world. This breed has been used for everything from a war horse in World War I to show jumping and general riding today. In Horse Isle, this breed is only found in the desert.
Viewing Azteca:
This relatively young breed from Mexico that is the result of the breeding of the Andalusian, Quarter Horse and Mexican Criollo. The Azteca has often been used for bullfighting though it is great with cattle and performs well in shows. An intelligent, agile, spirited and elegant breed, the Azteca is great versatile horse that can only be found on the deserts of Horse Isle.
Viewing Bashkir Curly:
Though the exact origins are unknown, it is believed the Bashkir Curly that inhabits North America descended from the Russian Bashkirs that can be found on the southern Ural Mountains. Known for its curly winter coat, the Bashkir Curly is able to withstand extremely cold temperatures and dig food out from under 3 foot deep snow. An extremely hardy horse the breed is also known to be gentle and easy to train. On Horse Isle, the Bashkir Curly can only be found on snow. This breed ranges from 13.3-16hh.
Viewing Belgian:
Originating in Belgium, the Belgian's popularity has been on the rise as a great draft horse. Typically weighing around 2000 pounds, the Belgian is a very gentle and willing worker. The most common use is for farm work and parade pulling.
Viewing Calabrese:
The Calabrese, or Calabrian, comes from the Calabra region of Italy and is of great antiquity. Its existence in this area predates the establishment of Rome; afterward it was one of the most sought-after horses in the Empire. Arabian and Turkoman are known to be in his ancestry, and the Calabrese and Andalusian no doubt influenced each other many times over the centuries. The Calabrese is naturally tall and hunter-like in proportions and temperament, and not without a dash of fire. Extremely rare today, the Calabrese is most often the usual shades of bay, brown, chestnut and grey, but any color can occur. This breed stands around 16-17hh.
Viewing Camargue:
Originating in southeastern France, the Camargue is found in marshes and watery plains and even has the nickname "horses of the sea". Though called horses, due to their relatively short stature, they would technically be considered ponies. Farmers and ranchers known as "guardians" ride the Camargue and use the horse to round up the black bulls that also roam the plains. This breed is semi-wild and has adapted to extreme weather so is not stabled. They are known for their sure-footedness, endurance and even temperament. The Camargue ranges from 13-14.1hh.
Viewing Camel:
This camel is a dromedary camel, being it only has one hump. Most camels are domesticated, the only wild ones being a certain type of Bactrian camel (the ones with two humps). Camels can go for a week without food or water and store their energy in the fat that makes up the hump on its back. It also has special eyelids, eyelashes and nostrils that allow for easier living in the windy deserts. Found only in the deserts of Horse Isle, it may not be a horse, but you can pretend!
Viewing Caspian:
A very old breed closely related to the Arabian, the Caspian is believed to be the ancestor to all hot-blood horses. Naturally small, the Caspian is considered a miniature horse, not a pony. Quite rare, the breed was considered extinct until rediscovered in Iran in 1965. This elegant, delicate looking breed is known to be an excellent jumper.
Viewing Campolina:
The Campolina is a gaited horse from Brazil. They were originally bred by Cassiano Campolina, a land-owner of great importance whose horses were especially admired by the Portuguese emperor. The breed's blood includes that of the Alter Real and the now extinct Spanish Jennet, as well as horses of Austrian origin. Campolinas are very popular and numerous in Brazil. They stand between 14 and 15hh and all colors are found in the breed.
Viewing Canadian Horse:
Descended from the horses sent to Canada by the French King, Louis XIV, in the late 17th century, the Canadian Horse was originally leased out to farmers to help them with work. The environment was harsh, food was scarce and the work was hard, making the Canadian Horse develop into a tough, sturdy breed. Also having a calm temperament, the horse is a great all-around breed. The Canadian Horse ranges from 14-16.2hh.
Viewing Cape Boerperd:
The Cape in this horse's name is the Cape of Good Hope, the most southern part of South Africa. "Boerperd" means "Farmer's Horse" in Afrikaans. In conformation, this breed and horses such as the Canadian and Morgan are of a similar type. However, the Boerperd's original antecedents come from the opposite end of the planet, the island of Java. Thoroughbred, Norfolk Roadster, Criollo and other influences were added later on, and, recently, American Saddlebred and Hackney. Sometimes referred to as the Boer Pony, this is a true horse. It stands 14-15hh and may be any color, although roans are considered particularly hardy.
Viewing Chincoteague Pony:
These ponies from Assateague Island are best known for the annual roundup and auction that takes place as a fund-raiser in Chincoteague, Virginia. Chincoteague Ponies live under harsh conditions and are therefore extremely hardy and intelligent. They are good driving and trail riding ponies. This breed is only found on the beaches of Horse Isle.
Viewing Cleveland Bay:
The Cleveland Bay is a rare breed from England with only about 500 purebreds in the world. As its name suggests, this breed is always bay. It is also a tall horse, averaging 16 hands high. Cleveland Bays are often used for pulling carriages but are also great for jumping, driving, and dressage.
Viewing Clydesdale:
Originating in Scotland, the Clydesdale is a weighty breed that moves with a smoothness that is not suggestive of its large size. Long feathering on the legs accentuates their movement. It is most commonly used for draft and hitch work.
Viewing Connemara Pony:
Originating on rocky, rough terrain in Western Ireland, the Connemara Pony is, not surprisingly, a hardy, sturdy and intelligent breed. The pony's temperament is well known as being calm and willing to please. Because of its history, the breed is great for a variety of events, including jumping and endurance to light draft even.
Viewing Criollo:
Known to be an extremely hardy breed, the Criollo is incredibly tough and is able to live in a variety of different, extreme climates. Originating in Argentina from Spanish horses that were brought there and set free during the 16th century, a breed standard was set up in the early 1900's. It is a breed of great endurance and longevity. On Horse Isle, the Criollo is only found on the desert. This breed ranges from 13.3-15.1hh.
Viewing Dales Pony:
Originally meant to be a pack pony, the Dales Pony is known for its strength, endurance and agility. Because of its sturdiness and endurance, it is great for long trail rides and day treks. The breed also does well in dressage.
Viewing Danish Warmblood:
Originating in Denmark, the Danish Warmblood was bred to be a superb competition horse. The Frederiksborg and Thoroughbred were the main base for this versatile breed, but a few others were added for refining purposes. Known for a good temperament and intelligence, the Danish Warmblood excels at cross country, dressage and show jumping. This breed ranges from 15.3-17hh.
Viewing Dartmoor Pony:
Originating in Dartmoor in the United Kingdom around 1000 years ago, the Dartmoor Pony was used in the tin mines for many centuries. Currently it is considered a rare breed with only around 6,000 in the world. It is a hardy pony with excellent stamina because of local weather extremes but is also gentle and quiet. Today, the Dartmoor Pony is often used for general riding, but is also good at jumping and driving.
Viewing Dole:
Originating in Norway, the Dole comes in two types. One is the cold-blooded trotter, and the other a heavier draft. Breeding is very selective. Every stallion has its lower legs X-rayed to ensure proper bone mass and structure. Other testing is done and only stallions that are "prized" are allowed to breed and help further the Dole. The breed is sometimes still used in Norway for logging since it does less damage to the land and does not require as wide of trails. The Dole is known to have a great temperament, willing disposition and can be used not only for light draft work, but also as a harness horse or for casual riding. The Dole ranges in height from 14.1-16hh.
Viewing Don:
The Don originated in Russia back in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. This breed is extremely hardy with amazing stamina and is able to live in a large variety of climates and situations. Originally used by the Cossack Cavalry, the Don was the horse used to ward off Napoleon when he attempted to invade Russia and was pursued all the way back to Paris. Originally a smaller breed, its size increased when Persian Arabs, Thoroughbreds and Orlovs were bred to help refine the breed in the early twentieth century. Since then, there has been little outside influence. The Don is versatile, calm, even tempered breed used both under saddle and in harness. This breed ranges from 15.1-16.2hh.
Viewing Dutch Warmblood:
The Dutch Warmblood is a "sport warmblood" originating in the Netherlands. There are three categories of Dutch horses: the Sport Horse, the Harness Horse and the versatile Gelderlander horse. Each is best in it's specific category, but, in general, this breed is known for its athleticism, intelligence and eagerness. The breed excels at high levels of dressage and show jumping. The Dutch Warmblood ranges from 16-17hh.
Viewing Exmoor Pony:
The Exmoor Pony is a very old and primitive breed. People tried to introduce other breeds into the bloodline and only succeeded in producing a pony that could not survive the harsh winter. The Exmoor Pony has a specially designed winter coat that repels water and has an inner layer for insulation. Having high endurance and being very hardy, many of these ponies still roam wild in herds. When owned, they can be used in a variety of events, such as jumping and long-distance riding. These ponies are only found on the snow in Horse Isle.
Viewing Falabella:
Originally bred in Argentina, the Falabella is the smallest horse breed in the world. Originally bred from small Thoroughbreds and Shetlands, it retained the proportions of its larger ancestors and is therefore a miniature horse, not a pony. The breed is intelligent, gentle and docile and easily adapts to its environment. Even though it is so small, it is a good jumper.
Viewing Fell Pony:
A native breed of England, the Friesian is an evident ancestor to the Fell Pony. The well-known Friesian's trot was passed on to the Fell, allowing it to trot at a high speed for an extended period of time. It is a smooth and athletic breed as well as being rather intelligent. Used for many purposes, the Fell excels at show jumping.
Viewing Friesian:
Bred originally in the Netherlands, the Friesian was once a mount favored by armored knights because it could bear the weight but maneuver more quickly than the larger draft horses. It resembles a light draft horse because of its heavier bone structure though it has a high stepping action and is quite agile for its size. Naturally holding its head high with an arched neck, it is a graceful and regal looking breed that is well suited for dressage.
Viewing Finnhorse:
The Finnhorse of Finland is a perfect all-around horse for just about any use. While a descendant of northern-European coldbloods, the Finnhorse is quite fast and agile; it makes an excellent jumper. The Finnhorse is also an outstanding harness racer, with a "Trotting King" and a "Trotting Queen" crowned each year. Most Finnhorses are chestnut or sorrel, but all colors and patterns are welcome in the breed. Finnhorses are patient, willing workers who are very affectionate toward their owners. Nowadays there are four types; the draft type used for farming and pulling, the pony-sized horse, the trotting type which is used for racing, and the riding/sport horse type used for jumping, dressage and other disciplines. The horses generally stand 15-17hh.
Viewing Florida Cracker:
Believed to be descended from the Spanish horses brought to the United States in the 1500s, the Florida Cracker got its name from the Florida cowmen because of the "crack" of their cow whips. This breed is a rare, gaited breed known for its natural, ground covering gaits. They also are very agile with great endurance and have great "cow sense". The Florida Cracker ranges in height from 13.2-15.2hh.
Viewing Frederiksborg:
The oldest breed in Denmark, the Frederiksborg was a very popular breed through the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries. So many were exported that very few were left in Denmark causing the original breed to almost disappear. Though some private breeders kept the Frederiksborg alive, Thoroughbred blood was increasingly used, which probably means very little of the original breed is left. Previously used as a carriage and war charger, the Frederiksborg is now a great riding horse. This breed averages 15.3hh.
Viewing French Trotter:
Harness racing was established in France in the early 1800's causing the country to develop its own trotting horse. This was done by crossing the English Thoroughbred, the native Norman mares and the Norfolk Roadster. Later, Standardbred blood was added to give more speed to the breed. This tough breed is known for its trotting speed, adaptability and good temperament. The French Trotter averages 16.2hh.
Viewing Furioso:
Originating in Hungary, this breed was founded on two English Thoroughbreds, Furioso, beginning in 1841, and North Star, beginning in 1844, being bred to mostly Hungarian mares. These two lines were kept separate, creating two different lineages until 1885. Once the two lines came together, the Furioso characteristics turned out to be the dominant of the two. Today, the Furioso is known to be a versatile breed known to be good in both harness and for steeplechasing. This breed ranges from 15-16.1hh.
Viewing Gelderland:
The Gelderland was created in a province of the Netherlands by crossing a number of different breeds, such as the Friesian, Arabian, Thoroughbred, Anglo-Norman, Hackney and Oldenburg. Used for light farm work as well as pleasure riding, the Gelderland is most frequently used for carriage work now because of its stylish gait. This breed ranges from 15.2-16.2hh.
Viewing Gotland:
This breed originated on the Swedish Island of Gotland and has been known since humans first inhabited northern Europe. The Goths used them as chariot and wagon horses as they migrated throughout Europe, first down to the Balkans and then west all the way to Spain, so this pony was able to influence any number of European breeds. Very much like the Exmoor of England (but in a far wider range of colors), this is a pony of exceptional soundness, vitality, endurance, hardiness and, best of all, common sense. They are decidedly ponies in both constitution and expression, although longer, and thus somewhat faster, than most native ponies. This breed ranges from 11.1-13hh.
Viewing Groningen:
The Groningen is very like the Friesian in most respects, and is said to resemble the old-style Dutch Oldenburg. Two types of Groningen are bred today: the old, carriage horse type (as presented here), and a newer type which is bred as a sport horse. The Groningen's fluid movements and easy care make it a very desirable horse. All solid colors except cream dilutions (the horse shown under "palomino" is actually a blond sorrel) are found, as are tobiano pintos. The horse stands between 15-16.2hh.
Viewing Gypsy Vanner:
Gypsies in England bred the Gypsy Vanner over generations to create what they believed was the perfect caravan horse. It was bred to be strong, intelligent, docile and beautifully colored. The mane and tail are full and there is feathering starting at the knee or hock which covers the entire hoof. These features make them pleasing to watch and distinct so that the gypsies knew which were their horses and it was harder for someone to steal them. Even though the Vanner was bred for caravan pulling, it has a broad back which is perfect for bareback riding.
Viewing Hackney Horse:
The Hackney is known as a well-built horse with a gait that is pleasing to watch. The breed moves stylishly and with, what looks like, little effort. Originating in England, the Hackney Horse is known for remaining sound and having few problems. The breed is a trotting breed and is best used for driving and jumping.
Viewing Haflinger:
An elegant looking horse, the Haflinger was created by crossing the Arabians and Alpine Ponies. Amazingly athletic for it's small size this breed is also known for its excellent disposition and willingness to work. It does well in lower levels of dressage and jumping as well as trail riding
Viewing Hanoverian:
The Hanoverian is a popular warmblood that originated in Germany. Once used as a war horse, it has since been bred lighter for agility and ease of trainability. A highly athletic and graceful breed, the Hanoverian excels at high level events such as Olympic jumping, cross-country, and dressage.
Viewing Highland Pony:
An old breed, the Highland Pony is believed to be descended from the northern European pony living in Northern Scotland and the Scottish Isles following the Ice Age. Over the centuries, Arabian, Clydesdale and Percheron blood were added to increase the size and conformation of the pony. A strong, surefooted, docile pony, the Highland is often used for forestry work as well as trail riding and driving. This breed ranges from 12.2-14.3hh.
Viewing Holsteiner:
Originating in Germany, the Holsteiner was originally used for pulling coaches and plows. After machines started replacing the horse, the breed began being used predominantly for sport. Known for its easy, relaxed temperament, willingness to work, and great athleticism, the breed has excelled in the high-level competitions of jumping and dressage.
Viewing Iberian Warmblood:
The Iberian Warmblood is a new breed meant to take advantage of the Andalusian's and Lusitano's natural aptitude for dressage, and widening its scope by the addition of Thoroughbred and other warmbloods. The Iberian Warmblood is thus an excellent all around sport horse of poise, grace and fire. All colors are permissible, and the horse generally stands between 15 and 17hh.
Viewing Icelandic:
The Icelandic Horse is incredibly respected in its native country of Iceland. It is a small, gaited breed that came to Iceland with the Vikings over 1000 years ago. Normally raised outside with a herd and not trained until the age of four or five, the Icelandic Horse has a respect for humans and is spirited and sure-footed. It is a very versatile breed and even though it is small, it is strong enough to carry adults by the age of four.
Viewing Irish Draught:
Originating in Ireland, the Irish Draught is a powerfully built horse of substance, but not as heavily built as the name implies. Once used for agriculture as well as war (as recent as World War I) the breed was crossed with Thoroughbreds and now excels in jumping and many other competitions.
Viewing Irish Sport Horse:
The original, and in the opinion of many, still the best, of the Warmblood Sport Horses is the Irish Sport Horse, formerly known as the Irish Hunter. Unlike most warmbloods, only two breeds are used to arrive at this intelligent, athletic and versatile mount: the Irish Draught (which is, in reality, more of a heavy warmblood), and the English Thoroughbred. This is a steady, reliable hunter/jumper which also excels at cross country and stadium jumping. It can be any color and pattern of white with the exception of appaloosa patterns, and generally stands between 15 and 17hh. (You'll notice that even the wild horses have neatly braided manes and tails. The local leprechauns take care of that!)
Viewing Java Pony:
The Java pony and its Indonesian relatives are probably the descendants of Chinese equines, though whether these were small horses or true ponies is debatable. The Java is the largest and "least improved" (that is, most original in type) of this group. The pony is generally used for pulling two wheeled taxi carts, though it is also ridden and used for light draft work. It stands between 12 and 13 hands high and may be any color.
Viewing Jutland:
Originating in Denmark, the Jutland was originally bred for agricultural work. In the 19th century, breeders started to aim for this breed, introducing the stallion Oppenheim, who was part Shire and part Suffolk Punch. The Jutland resembles the Suffolk Punch with its compact build and round body, but has feathered legs. This breed is known for its docile nature and being a tireless and willing worker. Only found on lava, the Jutland ranges from 15-16.1hh.
Viewing Kaimanawa:
Early in the 19th century, horses were introduced into New Zealand. By the end of the century there were many feral horses running over the North Island around the Kaimanawa Mountains. As the human population increased, the horses lost their range and their population decreased to under 200 horses left. In 1981 a protected area was established for them. Currently, annual roundups occur to help keep the population at 500. The main purpose of these roundups is to protect the habitat in which the horses live. Because of the harsh environment in the wild, the horse is known to be very sturdy and hardy. The Kaimanawa ranges from 12.2-15hh.
Viewing Karabair:
The Karabair is a member of the Turanian horse group as is the Turkoman, Teke and Iomud. While shorter and somewhat broader, it shares their sparse mane and tail, long legs, great endurance and glistening, metallic coat. It is distinguished from the other three in that while the former were used solely as saddle horses, the Karabair was and is still driven in harness. A heavier variety is used to pull large carts. The horses are also used for mounted games. Karabairs are still bred in their homeland in Uzbekistan and are quite prized. In former times, these horses were exported all over Central Asia, Persia and as far east as China. They stand 14-15hh and are probably the most numerous of the various Turanian/Turkmene breeds. In Horse Isle, they are found only in the deserts.
Viewing Kathiawari:
Indigenous to India, the Kathiawari was greatly influenced by the Arabian. Best known for the distinctive, inward curved tips on the ears, this breed has a wiry and small build, but is said to be affectionate and have a quiet temperament. Many of the Kathiawaris have a natural ability to pace and are most often used for saddle work. This breed ranges from 13.2-15hh.
Viewing Kiger Mustang:
Discovered in 1977 in southeastern Oregon, the Kiger Mustang is related to the Spanish horses that were brought over in the 1600's. This particular wild horse is only dun or grullo and often has primitive markings, such as zebra stripes on the legs and a dorsal stripe. Known for stamina, agility and
intelligence, the Kiger Mustang makes a great driving and pleasure riding horse. This breed ranges from 14-15hh.
Viewing Kinsky:
The Kinsky, the Golden Horse of Bohemia, is probably Europe's first purpose-bred Sport Horse. This breed, which originated in 1516, was bred from native European horses and golden horses from Central Asia (probably of Turkmene blood), was allowed to run wild on the Kinsky estate, with the best trained for racing and hunting. Thoroughbred blood was judiciously added after the 18th century. These true hunter-type warmblood horses are fast, strong and very agile, and make excellent steeplechase and cross-country mounts--a golden Kinsky mare named Zoedone once won the Aintree Grand National. A full 40% of this breed is either palomino or buckskin, although almost all other colors occur. They stand between 15.2 and 17 hands high.
Viewing Knabstrup:
Originating in Denmark, the original Knabstrup was only 14.3 hands high. Now considered quite rare, the only aim in breeding this spotted horse has been to maintain a Danish riding horse, no matter the size. Most often found with loud leopard spotting, more recent crossbreeding for coloring has caused there to now be many different types, making the original much less common. Not only known for its coloring, but also for its intelligence and temperament, the Knabstrup is generally used as a carriage and riding horse.
Viewing Lipizzan:
The Lipizzan is a beautiful, strong and intelligent breed that has a great memory and makes it easily trainable. A foal is born black or bay and gradually greys as it ages, reaching maturity and becoming fully "white" by the age of seven. Though the breed does mature late, it has a long lifespan, typically still performing in its twenties and living into its late thirties. It is a great breed for classical dressage known best for the "airs above ground".
Viewing Llama:
Related to the camel, the llama is the among the oldest of the domesticated animals in the world. Originally domesticated in Peru it is most often used as a pack animal, being surefooted and able to carry approximately a quarter of its weight. Found only in the jungles of Horse Isle, the llama may not be horse, but you can pretend!
Viewing Lusitano:
Originating in the Iberian Peninsula (now Spain and Portugal), the Lusitano is closely related to the Andalusian. Known to have a calm disposition and not be quick to panic, this breed was once a war horse and has been used in the bullring for many years. Similar to the Andalusian, the Lusitano is agile and elegant with a strong "cow sense". Its arched neck, graceful appearance and excellent gaits lend the breed to dressage along with any general riding purposes.
Viewing Missouri Fox Trotter:
Named for its "fox trot" gait, the Missouri Fox Trotter is a great long-distance trail riding breed. Often used by forest rangers because of their surefootedness and endurance, the Fox Trotter is also known to have a calm disposition and a willingness to work.
Viewing Morab:
Originating from a cross of Arabians and Morgans, a common misconception surrounding the Morab is that it is not a breed, but a half-breed. The Morab has its own registry and when bred, reliably pass along distinguishing characteristics. This long-lived breed is muscular and powerful, with a uniformed, refined build. The Morab is an excellent family horse often used for showing and jumping.
Viewing Morgan:
The Morgan was originally bred by Justin Morgan in the United States. All Morgans trace back to a small, bay stallion named Figure. A versatile and strong breed, the Morgan is an all-around athlete as well as being very spirited but loving. They excel at everything from show jumping to dressage to many western events, such as reining and cutting.
Viewing Moroccan Barb:
The Barb horse has long been bred all over what was once ancient Libya (all of Africa north of the Sahara) but the name "Barb" comes from the Berber tribes concentrated in Morocco. It was from here that the Barb horse was introduced to Iberia. The Moroccan Barb, while a subtype, is probably truest in type to the original Barb, a horse of exceptional speed and endurance over stony ground. It differs from the Arabian in many ways; it is slightly smaller, apt to be Roman nosed, and has a coarser coat. All non-dilute, solid colors, and sabino patterns, are found in the breed. It generally stands between 13.3 and 15.2hh, the taller heights occurring with better feeding. On Horse Isle, the Moroccan Barb is found only in the desert.
Viewing Moyle:
The origin of this unique horse is a mystery, but there are many extremely interesting hints. Horses with tiny "horns" on their foreheads were known in China in very ancient times, and called "Dragon Horses," the modern descendant of which is the Datong. The Moyle Breed was developed by Rex Moyle of Idaho, who began trying to collect wild remnants of the exceptionally enduring horses that Mormon settlers had imported, who also often had those "frontal bosses." Cleveland Bays were added to avoid serious inbreeding. The result is a smallish but incredibly tough and enduring horse. The horse has exceptionally free movement of its shoulders, and is an exceptionally easy ride. All solid colors are found (with the exception of white) and markings generally few. The Moyle is typically between 14.2-15.3hh.
Viewing Mulassier:
Although a good draft horse in its own right, the Mulassier Poitevin (The "Poitou Mule-Maker" in English) was specifically bred to provide large, strong mares who could in turn produce large, strong mules. The body is long and cylindrical and the legs are long, a trait which is actually hidden by the copious "feather" on the lower legs. The character of the horses is calm and "sweet tempered," with the horses greatly enjoying human companionship. They stand between 15 and 17hh and all colors are allowed; in fact, the Mulassier is probably the only draft horse whose genetic palette includes the Cream genes, and so palominos and buckskins are found. They are found only on the lava isles.
Viewing Mule:
As the cross between a male donkey and a female horse, the mule is almost always sterile. They range in size from miniature to draft size depending on the mare that was bred to the jack. Because of the donkey, they are very strong and surefooted being able to carry more weight than a horse of the same size. Also, they can jump much higher than horses. A mule can be used for anything a horse is used for and they tend to be calmer.
Viewing National Show Horse:
A cross between the Arabian and the American Saddlebred, the National Show Horse contains the refined look and beauty of the Arabian with the motion and high stepping action of the Saddlebred. The breed was first developed in 1981 at which time the National Show Horse Registry began making it more financially rewarding to show horses, paying out more than $100,000 in prize money in one instance.
Viewing New Forest Pony:
Known as a versatile breed, the New Forest Pony was named after the forest in southern England where the breed originated. Known to be kind, gentle and have a calm disposition, it is a great mount for children though large and strong enough to carry adults. A natural jumper, the breed is also great for dressage and driving. The New Forest Pony ranges from 12-14.2hh.
Viewing Newfoundland Pony:
Descendants of the ponies used in the British Isles for draft purposes, the Newfoundland Pony was specifically bred to withstand the harsh winters in Canada and to be the 'beast of burden' for the area. Originally used to haul seaweed, fishing nets, firewood, gather hay and provide family transportation, the breed population dropped once modern machinery began to replace it. A gentle, docile, hardy pony, the Newfoundland is a great all-around pony. On Horse Isle they can only be found on snow.
Viewing Nokota:
The Nokota horse is the wild horse of the northern plains of the United States. Whereas the Spanish and American Mustangs are adapted to a more southerly clime with short or no winters, the Nokota is adapted to a more rugged terrain with long and bitter winters. Consequently, the Nokota, while still clearly showing some "Spanish Colonial" characteristics, are larger and heavier than their southern counterparts. Current Nokotas derive from a foundation herd that was removed from Theodore Roosevelt National Park. These are strong, agile horses, very intelligent, who, it turns out, are surprisingly good jumpers and cross-country mounts. All colors occur in this breed, with blue roan being so common that it is considered a breed hallmark. This breed ranges in height from 14-17hh.
Viewing Noriker:
A light draft breed originating in the Alps of Austria. The ancestors of the breed date back to Roman times, when the Noriker was used as a warhorse. The breed was officially recognized around 1565. Now used commonly for farm work, the Noriker is known to be a tough, hardy and powerful horse, making it popular in Europe. Because of its origin in the mountains, it is also sure-footed and able to withstand harsh winters with little to no shelter. This breed is only found on the lava of Horse Isle. The Noriker ranges from 15.3-17hh.
Viewing Norwegian Fjord:
The Norwegian Fjord is one of the oldest breeds, believed to have been domesticated over 4000 years ago. Used for hundreds of years as a farm horse in Norway, it is a very strong breed that is able to do draft work as well as being fast and light enough for riding. Its thick coat allow the Fjord to withstand harsh conditions, thus it can only be found on the snow in Horse Ilse. It is a surefooted breed with a gentle temperament and willingness to work. Currently, Fjords are often used in lower level dressage and show jumping.
Viewing Oldenburg:
Once a great carriage and coach horse used in the military and mail service, the Oldenburg has since become a great sport horse. Originating in Germany, this horse is large with a noble air, a long, powerful neck and character and rideability sought after in sport horses. The modern Oldenburg is best suited for dressage and driving competitions.
Viewing Orlov Trotter:
Originating in Russia in 1784, the Orlov Trotter was originally bred for racing and as a carriage horse. Very well known in Russia, the breed has a hereditary fast trot. Taller, bulkier and sturdier than the Standardbred, the Orlov is also not as fast, though its trotting action is more impressive. A versatile, willing and hard worker, the Orlov Trotter is most often used for driving, carriage pulling and pleasure riding. This breed ranges from 15.3-16hh.
Viewing Paso Fino:
A native breed of Central and South America, the Paso Fino is known for its smooth, animated, four-beated gait. It is spirited but gentle with a willingness to please. This is a versatile breed good for dressage and trail riding. On Horse Isle, this breed is only found in the jungle.
Viewing Pegasus:
This magical horse relative is an amazing creature. It has the ability to fly itself and its rider over water! No one can own a Pegasus, however, there have been reports of pegasi willing to provide temporary service for incredible fees on Cloud Isle.
Viewing Percheron:
A powerfully built, elegant breed, the Percheron has been a popular draft horse. Originating in France it was often used as a warhorse during the middle ages. When it was no longer needed for that job, it was used in agriculture, logging, and pulling heavy carriages. Considered proud and intelligent, the Percheron is now most often used for farm work, pulling sleighs or wagons, and shown in draft breed horse shows.
Viewing Peruvian Paso:
As the name suggests, the Peruvian Paso originates from Peru. It is very spirited and elegant though incredibly smooth and easy to ride. Instead of a trot, the Peruvian Paso has a four beat gait that almost completely negates the jolting up and down movement the rider feels from the footfalls of the horse. This breed is also known for it's "brio", which is its spirit, putting it simply. The excellent temperment, endurance and sensitivity to its rider along with the above mentioned traits make the Peruvian Paso a favorite among many people. On Horse Isle, this breed is only found in the jungle.
Viewing Pony of the Americas:
A relatively young breed, the Pony of the Americas was first developed in Iowa in the United States only about 50 years ago. A gentle pony, the POA is always appaloosa. Like the Appaloosa, the POA always has a white sclera around the eye and striped hooves. This breed is generally a child and young adult's mount, but is great for trail riding, hunting and eventing.
Viewing Przewalski's Horse:
The Przewalski's Horse is the only species of "wild" horse left in the world. Named after the person that "discovered" them in 1879, they originate in Mongolia and in the early 1900's many were hunted, captured for zoos and exhibits. These factors as well as others caused the breed to go extinct in the wild by 1969. More recently, a foundation specific for preserving the breed has been working to reintroduce the Przewalski's Horse back into the wild, mostly on a National Park and preserve. This breed can only be found on Lava Isle of Horse Isle. The Przewalski's Horse ranges from 12-14hh.
Viewing Quarter Horse:
The Quarter Horse is a very fast and agile breed. The most popular breed in the United States, it has been clocked at 55 mph. It is the fastest horse over a short distance. The breed is also known for its calm disposition and cow sense. Most often ridden in western events such as barrel racing and calf roping, the Quarter Horse can also be seen in English events such as dressage and show jumping.
Viewing Racking Horse:
Though popular since the Civil War in the United States, the Racking Horse did not have its own registry until the 1970's. Known for its smooth, fast, natural gait, the "rack", this breed is known to be quite versatile. The breed has been used for many uses from on the farm and pleasure riding to competing in the show rings. The Racking Horse ranges from 15-16hh.
Viewing Rocky Mountain Horse:
Originating in Kentucky in the United States, the Rocky Mountain Horse is a very versatile breed known for its smooth gaits and mild temperament. This breed is often used on the farm, pulling plows and working with cattle, they are also known for being very gentle, working well with children.
Viewing Selle Francais:
Though a relatively young breed (only about 50 years old) the Selle Francais is a very important sporting horse in France. Best known for its show jumping skills, often used in international competitions such as the olympics, the breed is very athletic and strong. It is also known to be very affectionate, seeming to greatly want to please its rider. Because of its athleticism, the Selle Francais has also been known to do well in eventing and dressage, not just show jumping.
Viewing Shagya Arabian:
Originating in Hungary approximately 200 years ago, the Shagya Arabian has the endurance, elegance and hardiness of the Desert Arabian, but with a larger frame and height along with greater "rideability" making it a great carriage, driving and riding horse. Used as both a cavalry horse and light riding horse, the Shagya Arabian is also known to be an excellent jumper.
Viewing Shetland Pony:
This hardy pony is ideal for surviving harsh conditions and is only found on the snow in Horse Isle. The Shetland Pony is from the Shetland Islands off of Scotland where they were originally brought to England to work underground in the coal mines. They are currently still used as pack animals, but are great children's mounts. Shetlands are typically thick furred, very strong for their size and quite intelligent.
Viewing Shire:
The Shire is the tallest breed as well as being the second heaviest. Once used as a war horse in England, the breed was also useful for logging, farming and wagon pulling until it was replaced by automobiles and smaller draft horses. The characteristic feathering on its legs is to help protect the legs from the wet and muddy conditions of its native England. Though Shires are massive, they are gentle.
Viewing Sorraia:
The present day Sorraia horse of Portugal is thought to have descended directly from the indigenous wild horses of the Iberian peninsula. The name is from the Sorraia river. They are adapted to living in extremely dry conditions on very little food. This breed of horse has contributed to many other breeds; genetic markers of the Sorraia have been found in the American Mustang. However, the breed itself is nearly extinct. Its population is very small and most of the horses are related. The horses are either dun or grullo (marked as grey here) in color, and foals are born with zebra striping on the legs and sometimes on the back and neck. White markings are absent. The height ranges from 12.2-15.0hh.
Viewing Spanish Barb:
Originating from a cross between the North African, desert Barb and a breed of the Iberian Peninsula, the Spanish Barb is an old, but rare, breed. Once brought to the New World, the breed was used most often in the southwest as a work or even war horse. Known for its smooth gaits and surefootedness, the Spanish Barb is a breed with agility and elegance. In the land of Horse Isle they are only found in the desert. The Spanish Barb ranges from 13.3-15hh.
Viewing Standardbred:
Best known for harness racing, the breed is built to trot or pace quickly. In order to be entered into the stud book the Standardbred needed to be able to trot or pace a mile within the standard time of two minutes and thirty seconds. The Standardbred has excellent endurance, a calm temperment and, though it is typically not use to leg pressure from a rider, can be a wonderful pleasure riding horse.
Viewing Suffolk Punch:
Used primarily for plow work and used in pulling contests, the Suffolk Punch is one of the oldest draft breeds in England. This draft breed has a large body and relatively short, sturdy legs. The breed always comes in some shade of chestnut and is considered very rare.
Viewing Spanish Barb:
Originating from a cross between the North African, desert Barb and a breed of the Iberian Peninsula, the Spanish Barb is an old, but rare, breed. Once brought to the New World, the breed was used most often in the southwest as a work or even war horse. Known for its smooth gaits and surefootedness, the Spanish Barb is a breed with agility and elegance. In the land of Horse Isle they are only found in the desert. The Spanish Barb ranges from 13.3-15hh.
Viewing Tennessee Walking Horse:
The Tennessee Walking Horse is gentle and versatile, once used for everything from farm work to trail riding. This breed is known for its smooth gaits. The most popular being the running walk, in which the horse walks at a brisk pace of 10 to 20 mph and nods its head. It is a popular show horse because of its natural gaits, but it is also great for trail riding where it can cover a lot of ground quickly and smoothly.
Viewing Tersky:
The Tersky is named after the great stud farm at Tersk in western Russia. The breed is based on two Strelets Arabian (actually Anglo-Arab) stallions and mares of various breeds from the Central Asian steppes. The horses are smallish (in recent times, Furioso and Trakehner blood have been added to increase height), and almost universally grey with the characteristic Turkoman metallic sheen. They are bred today at the Tersk and Stavropol studs and are being increasingly exported as talented jumping horses. They stand 14.3 to 16hh.
Viewing Thessalian:
The Thessalian was long thought to be extinct, but some have been found to still survive. This breed was a popular mount in ancient Greece. Alexander The Great's famous mount, Bucephalus, was a Thessalian. Originally short in stature, after the second World War, Arabs and Lipizzans were bred to the mares to increase their height. They now range from 14-15hh.
Viewing Thoroughbred:
The Thoroughbred originated from three Arabian studs and has been selectively bred for over 300 years. Best known for its speed, endurance and heart, it is most often thought of as a race horse. Many Thoroughbreds have competed in other events, such as show jumping and dressage, and done well.
Viewing Trakehner:
Originating in East Prussia in the 1790's, the Trakehner is quite a light-boned warmblood. Known for its "floating trot" this breed moves elegantly, allowing it to do very well in dressage competitions. Often excelling in jumping competitions as well, the Trakehner was bred for elegance and athleticism and is known for is mild temperament.
Viewing Ukrainian Saddle Horse:
The Ukrainian Saddle Horse was bred as an attempt to preserve/resurrect the famed Russian Saddle Horse, which had gone virtually extinct at the end of World War II. The Ukrainians used the best riding horse blood they could find: what Russian Saddle Horses were left, mares from Hungary and stallions from Germany and Great Britain. Today, Ukrainians make Olympic caliber dressage mounts. Young stock are tested in eventing, jumping, dressage and racing before being selected as breeding stock. Bays, chestnuts and browns predominate although other colors are found. The Ukrainian stands generally between 15 and 16.1hh. The Ukrainian Saddle Horse is found on the snow isles of Horse Isle.
Viewing Unicorn:
This magical horse relative is an amazing creature. It has the ability to magically transport itself and its rider anywhere! No one can own a Unicorn, however, there have been reports of unicorns willing to provide temporary service for incredible fees on Cloud Isle.
Viewing Warlander:
Development of the Warlander began in the 1990s. The Andalusian and Friesian were crossed to produce a flexible, balanced baroque type horse for modern dressage. The Friesian added sound temperament, impulsion and size; the Andalusian gave elasticity and lightness. In more recent years, the Lusitano has been used to widen the color range of the Warlander, and some are now breeding "Painted Warlanders." The horse is proud and elegant but not particularly hot, and perfectly suited to international level dressage. It also makes an excellent riding and driving horse. The Warlander is found only on the lava isles and its heights are typically 15-17hh.
Viewing Welsh Cob:
The Welsh Cob has been an important breed to the British for many years. Used to lead war horses in the 16th century, it can sustain a trot for great distances. Typically heavier boned than the other sections of Welsh Ponies, there is also no upper height limit to the Cob. The Welsh Cob is a spirited breed with great endurance.
Viewing Welsh Mountain Pony:
Whenever one thinks of the archetypal "pretty pony," this is the pony which comes immediately to mind. The proud carriage, small size and dished face of this pony suggest Arabian ancestry, but known Arabian ancestry is actually quite recent, and these characteristics were present in the breed long before that addition. It has been found in the mountainous areas of Wales for millenia, and for purposes of registration may be any solid color. Welsh Mountain Ponies are not to exceed 12.2hh. On Horse Isle, their range in height is 10-12.2hh.
Viewing Zebra:
Though not often domesticated, there have been a few instances when people tried. The zebra tends to panic easily making it hard to train. They do have better resistance to disease in Africa than horses. The zebras of Horse Isle are found only on Pirate Isle and will gladly allow themselves to be ridden, if you are kind to them.
JumpySqueak's horse: *-PL-* Jumping Jelly (Grey Server)