Picking the right breed for you

There are generally believed to be over 300 different types of horse breeds around the world today, each with their own individual characteristics. Choosing a horse breed to buy can seem like a daunting task, and there are many things to keep in mind. Most importantly, you must consider what you’ll be using your horse for, as there is usually a specific breed to suit specific purposes and tasks. Here is an introductory guide to different breeds of horses according to their ideal uses.




Work horses – If you have a farm or a large property and require a horse to help you carry out various tasks such as transporting goods or rounding sheep, work horses need to be strong, sturdy and reliable. The American Quarter horse is a popular work horse, as are draft horses such as the Breton and the Clydesdale. These types of draft horses are short, have a stocky frame, and are strong as well as calm, friendly and easygoing.



Leisure riding horses – If you’re going to be riding your horse primarily for fun and leisure, you’ll need a horse which is comfortable and easy to ride. If it’s a walking horse you’re after, the Tennessee Walking horse has a smooth gait, high stamina and calm temperament. The Icelandic horse is a small horse which is technically pony-size, but is also popular for leisure riding.



Show horses - Show horses need to be athletic and agile, but unlike racehorses, they are chosen for their agility and trainability rather than their speed. Appaloosa horses are a popular show breed, due to their attractive, colourful spotted coat. The Dutch Warmblood is another breed of horse bred specifically for competition, as they are bold and reliable.



Pet horses - If you’re looking for a horse to keep as a pet and companion, miniature horses are ideal as they are extremely friendly, have an average lifespan of approximately 40 years and need less maintenance, food and living space than a full-sized horse. They are common and easy to buy, and there are countless horse trading websites which list miniature horses for sale.



Competition horses – While many people have differing opinions on what the best competition horse breeds are, there are a few which have characteristics which make them ideal for competition. The Arabian is perhaps the oldest and most popular breed of horse worldwide. Specially bred for almost thousands of years, these horses are fast, good-natured, quick to learn, and willing to please, and also have high endurance. The Stock Horse is also a popular horse for various competitive disciplines, such as dressage, polo, endurance riding, and show jumping. Online listings websites can help you find an stock horse for sale.



While this is just a rough introductory guide to ideal horse breeds for different purposes, remember to research all the options before you buy your horse. You also need to research the characteristics of each horse breed, the maintenance required for each, and where you can purchase the horse you’re looking for.