The American Quarter Horse

Established in 1940, the American Quarter Horse Association is the largest breed registry in the United States. During the birth of the registry, a standard of breed characteristics was set forth by its founding members. The original description of the American Quarter Horse defined the hallmarks of the breed that at the time, aptly described the “bulldog” type. Today, while the basic standards hold true, the infusion of Thoroughbred blood influences the breed and you may not recognize some of the modern day American Quarter Horses as the type described in the formation of the registry.

Originally, the Quarter Horse type was short backed and compact, well muscled with a short head, fox-like ears, and large kind eyes with an intelligent amiable expression. Its deep sloping shoulder should be set at a forty five degree angle with a good wither enabling effortless saddle carriage. The chest should be very broad with wide forelegs, short cannon bones, and medium length pasterns. The hindquarters should exhibit width of muscle extending from the top of the thigh down to the gaskin. Hocks should be set well with good bone and width. The Quarter Horse should give the impression of overall balance with the ability to move quickly in any direction and stop just as easily.

Historically, the Quarter Horse was smallish breed usually not over 15 hands. Today, the range can be anywhere between a 13.2 hand cutting horse and a 17.2 hand hunter jumper. The breed standard has evolved depending on what event the horse will be used. Usually, if the horse is used for classic Western events, (i.e. cutting, reining, reined cow horse), they tend to be under 15 hands. English events, jumping, hunter under saddle, and hunter hack requires the longer stride of a much taller horse, usually over 16 hands.

In the founding years of the registry, only thirteen colors were recognized. They were: black, brown, bay, sorrel, chestnut, grey, dun, palomino, grullo, red dun, blue roan, red roan, and buckskin. Now, the registry allows perlino and cremello animals to have full registration as well. At one time, excessive white found on the body would disallow the animal into the registry with the thought that an American Quarter Horse should be of solid color differentiating it from the Paint Horse. With the advent of the “White Rule”, horses with excessive white markings can now be registered with a notation on the registration certificate.

Generally, the Quarter Horse’s temperament is easy going, with a keen mind. They are easily trained and make terrific horses for a novice rider. Because of their good mind, they excel at a variety of tasks and are calm on the trail. You will even find Quarter Horses at such prestigious events as Grand Prix jumping where warm bloods are the norm, a testament to their trainability. They can be found anywhere that requires a steady, obedient companion.

Whether herding cattle on a ranch, jumping fences in an arena, or simply enjoying the company of a good horse, you cannot go wrong with the American Quarter Horse. The breed exemplifies the very best in conformation, trainability, and just great all around partners for life.