Quarter Horses

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Quarter horses are popular for its athletic ability. They’re called Quarter Horses because they can run a quarter a mile faster than any other horse in the world. They’re even named as the “world’s fastest athlete”. Now, wouldn’t you like to get on a ride with the fastest horse?

During the 1600s, America’s horses were mostly of Spanish origin. The next year, English horses (of native, eastern and Spanish blood) were first imported to Virginia. When these horses were bred to the local stock, an outcome was a compact horse with well-muscled hindquarters. Farmers used these horses in various farm chores like plowing, pulling logs, pulling light carriages and riding. Through this, they became versatile. After doing the chores, farmers would bring their horses into town.

Different horses will be racing in quarter miles. The fastest horse declared as winner will be bred more often. This led to a versatile horse which could run faster over short distances. When the people moved west, the horses were brought along. Many of these horses drove the cattle during the long journey. These people observed how well the horse did on the trip and in working with the cows. So, they called the horses’ the “perfect cow pony”. More than any other horse, they could out perform any other breeds which prove how versatile they are.

The American Quarter Horse was only recognized as an official breed in 1940. This was made possible when the people gathered together to confer about the record of their bloodlines so out-crossings will no longer be possible. Then, the American Quarter Horse was created. The American Quarter Horse bloodline is protected by the American Quarter Horse Association. They have established strict registration rules and maintain the world’s largest equine registry which has 3.7 million American Quarter Horses registered.

All Quarter Horses have fine heads, small ears, and broad foreheads. They have short yet strong legs and their hindquarters are remarkably strong. They stand between 14 and 15 hands high. They are versatile, dependable, keen, intelligent and prudent.

Since quarter horses are versatile, they can do anything from team penning to jumping. They even have good cow instincts which make them a good choice for competitive roping, cattle-penning and ranch work. They are also great trail horses. They also herd cattle, participate in numerous rodeo events and in dressage and show jumping.