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American Quarter Horse

Kyla Schuler

            The American Quarter Horse originated in colonial America in the early 1600s and was used primarily for sprint racing because of their quick acceleration and muscular build. The foundation bloodlines were a mix of Arabian and Turk horses bred to English mares which produced a compact, heavily muscled horse that could run short distances faster than any other horse. But as America grew so did the American Quarter Horse. The horse adapted into more of a work horse that could be used for almost any kind of task. Along with the first pioneers the American Quarter Horse ventured its way westward pulling wagons, herding cattle, and exploring the wide open plains.

            Today the American Quarter Horse is known as “The World's Most Versatile Horse” and its popularity has grown as fast as the breed. The breed has three million registered horses worldwide! They are still used on ranches and racetracks as well as having become popular in the show ring and as a pleasure riding horse. There are more than one million American Quarter Horse owners in the United States and 64 other countries worldwide.

            The Quarter Horse quickly became known as the “Perfect Cow Pony” because they were superior in working cattle. Today Quarter Horses are still bred for cattle work. They are amazing to watch as they get eye to eye with the cow, watching its every movement. Nearly independent of the rider, the horse can separate a cow from the herd, hopping back and forth as the cow turns every which direction. This use to be a helpful tool on the open range when a cow needed separating, now it is a competitive sport called cutting. The Quarter Horse can out perform other breeds in many different sports including calf roping, barrel racing, team penning and often reining, proving to the world that it is still as multitalented as it once was.

            The Quarter Horse has distinctive characteristics that make it such a wonderful and versatile horse. These characteristics allow it to excel in many diverse areas. The Quarter Horse has a small, short, refined head with a straight profile, and a strong, well-muscled body, featuring a broad chest and powerful, rounded hindquarters.  They usually stand between 14 and 16 hands high.

            The Quarter Horse has a prominent personality that is superior to that of any other horse. They are known as “the perfect family horse”. They adapt to the riders personality and the task at hand. They are known for their prominent intelligences and gentle and friendly disposition. They clearly outshine other breeds in many aspects. In my opinion they are the superior horse breed.