10 Facts About American Quarter Horses

They’re well-known and loved by many- the American Quarter Horse. This type of horse is the most popular breed in the United States. If you’ve been in the horse industry for a few years, then chances are you may have met or even rode one. They’re versatile, athletic, and come in a wide range of colors. Enjoy these fun facts about this amazing horse breed!

Facts About Quarter Horses

1. They have a unique history! It began with the influence of Thoroughbreds and the native horses of America in the 1600s. This crossbred horse was small, quick, and hardy. In the 19th century, new blood was introduced to include Spanish stock, mustangs, and Native American horses. This new horse had “cow sense” and performed well on ranches.
2. The American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) was formed in 1940. This group of horsemen made it their mission to preserve the pedigrees of ranch horses. Some of the earliest recorded horses were Wimpy, Joe Reed, Chief, and Oklahoma Star.
3. Thoroughbred blood still runs in many Quarter Horses. Crossbreds are registered under the name Appendix Quarter Horse, which is the offspring of a registered Thoroughbred and American Quarter Horse. Some prefer the earlier type and created a separate organization for Foundation Quarter Horses.
4. The name was derived from their ability to run short distances (a quarter mile or less). Some have reached speeds of 55 mph! Even today, the breed can be seen on the track.
5. Quarter Horses are most popular in western disciplines, though many are also used in English ones. They frequently compete in barrel racing, western pleasure, reining, roping, cutting, and various rodeo competitions. Some perform in the hunter, show jumping, and dressage arena. Many owners enjoy going on trail rides with them.
6. In 2009, Texas declared that Quarter Horses were the official state horse. There’s over 453,000 in the state; however, worldwide the number is in the millions.
7. There are a few distinct types of this breed- bulldog, Thoroughbred, and progressive versions. The stockier, bulldog type has powerful hindquarters, slow and smooth gaits, a level topline, and is somewhat shorter. Whereas, the Thoroughbred type has long legs, muscular hindquarters, a lean body, and is between 15.2 and 16 hands. A progressive one is a combination of both.
8. Quarter Horses come in nearly all colors to include sorrel, black, buckskin, palomino, cremello, and blue roan to name a few. Even spotted color patterns are acceptable if it can be proved that both parents are registered.
9. This breed has a few genetic diseases that should be avoided. Some of the more well-known ones include Hyperkalemic periodic paralysis (HYPP) and Hereditary Equine Regional Dermal Asthenia (HERDA). HYPP is from the stallion Impressive. This autosomal dominant gene can cause muscle twitching and weakness. Any horse born after 2007 that is a confirmed descendant will be required to have HYPP on their registration papers. HERDA is from an autosomal recessive gene. Both parents must carry the gene for it to be passed on. It causes a collagen defect where the skin isn’t held together firmly.
10. Many Quarter Horse owners comment on how intelligent and even tempered these horses are. They often make wonderful horses for beginners and children.

There is so much to love about this striking breed from their calm dispositions to their beautiful colors and stout builds. Don’t miss the opportunity to ride or own one of these lovely horses. They won’t disappoint you!