What Are the Four Leading Breeds of Horses?

As of 2005, there were 9.2 million horses in the United States and over 2 million horse owners. The majority of horses owned in the States compete in show competitions, but many owners keep horses for pleasure riding as well. Hundreds of breeds exist, but the four most popular in the United States are those that have existed for hundreds of years as strong competitors in the show ring and on the race track.

  1. American Quarter Horse

    • The American Quarter Horse remains popular with many Western riders.

      The American Quarter Horse, commonly referred to as a Quarter Horse, is a breed specific to North America. This versatile breed can be used for many horseback riding activities ranging from showing to recreation. They are popular with Western riding, rodeos, trail rides and working on ranches. Historically, the name refers to the 1/4 mile race run by this breed during the American Colonial era. To this day, Quarter Horses shine at the short-distance race and can be seen sprinting at many race tracks. Physically, the horses maintain a muscular, compact frame.

    American Thoroughbred

    • Thoroughbreds retain a legacy within horse racing.

      In the United States, Thoroughbreds have achieved renown as racing horses. Every year, these strong competitors gallop across the Triple Crown's racetracks. On average, Thoroughbreds stand taller than Quarter Horses and have a leaner musculature, making them great for racing long distances. The Thoroughbred can reach up to 40 miles per hour. The Thoroughbred's physical build has made this breed popular with other equestrian sports such as show jumping and polo. Famous Thoroughbred racing horses include Man O'War and Seabiscuit.

    Arabian

    • Arabian horses are known for their powerful stride.

      The Arabian is the oldest known breed of horse out of which many other contemporary breeds like the Thoroughbred, have been bred. Originally associated with the Bedouin tribes roaming the Arabian subcontinent, many historical figures like Gengis Khan and Alexander the Great are associated with this breed. These agile and lean horses are characterized by large eyes, a broad forehead, small ears and a high tail carriage. To this day, the breed remains a popular competitor in Western competitions, driving and reining events, saddle seat and English pleasure competitions.

    Warmblood

    • Dutch rider Jeroen Dubbeldam won a gold medal in the 2000 Sydney Olympics with a Dutch Warmblood.

      The Warmblood breed of horses only recently became popular in the United States, although many European horse come from Warmblood stock. Popular types of warmblood include the Dutch Warmblood and the Selle Francais. More than many other breeds, the Warmblood is bred for competition. With a larger build than most Thoroughbreds, standing at least 16 hands, or 64 inches, and having a sturdy, rectangular frame, the Warmblood excels at equestrian sports like show jumping and dressage. Although the Warmblood is primarily found in Europe, interest in the breed in the United States has given way to the American Warmblood breed.