The American Quarter Horse is a breed that is very popular in America (and in Canada).
The Quarter horse is probably most well known for their race ability - running the quarter mile usually in 25 seconds or less. Watching the race, one gets into the race only to find that it is already over!
This race horse is a slim horse, reflecting more of its Thoroughbred breeding. In fact, this horse is becoming a breed in itself, the Appendix. Once the Appendix horse proves it adheres to certain guidelines, it is moved from the appendix of the AQHA into the association itself.
The stock type horse is a small, well muscled horse. Their build is much the same as that of a bull dog. They usually stand at about 15 hands high, with a broad chest and powerful hindquarters.
They are a compact, well-muscled horse, typically used as a cattle horse, good for cutting, and reining. Many of the rodeo horses, as well, are descendants of this breed.
The western pleasure type horse is usually a little larger than the stock horse, although still only about 16 hands high. If you watched any western movies, you probably saw these type on the big screen.
Horse shows, specifically the Halter class, show off these horse's exaggerated, well defined, muscle mass. Some vets are concerned that their skeletal system can't adequately carry this well muscled horse, and could lead to some genetic disorders, and are monitoring the breed.
This horse is truly a versatile horse. Cutting, reining, racing, and yet, gentle enough for children to ride.
Granddaughters desiring to know more about horses is the motivation. http://www.horseinsights.com is the storehouse. Wisdom is the reward.
Source: www.isnare.com
