American Quarter Horse: Breed Profile

 
The American Quarter Horse one of the most popular breeds in the world traces its roots back to the 1600s. Descended from a mix of Arabian horses with mustangs the American Quarter Horse is known for possessing a good temperament lots of versatility beauty speed agility and loyalty. Quarter Horses make great mounts for all levels of riders and owners as they tend to be friendly with people and easy to train. They are used as race horses working ranch horses and family pets.
Breed Overview

Weight 950 to 1200 poundsHeight 14 3 hands 56 inches to 16 hands 64 inchesBody Type Muscular body deep chest small head with wide forehead and flat profileBest For Working family and showLife Expectancy 25 years and sometimes longer
American Quarter Horse History and Origins
The American Quarter Horse descends from English and Spanish horses that were imported into the American colonies in the 1600s. These horses were crossed with native breeds including the Chickasaw horse and the Mustang. This pairing created a shorter more sturdy horse that was well suited for the terrain and work of the new American frontier.
The Quarter Horse name is derived from the breeds dominance in quartermile length races. The Quarter Horse has the ability to outrun other horse breeds in races of a quarter mile or less. Some horses have been clocked at speeds up to 55 mph 88 5 kmh.
Horses are also known for being surefooted and reliable mounts. Their levelheaded disposition and eagerness to please make them ideal for working with cattle and other livestock.
Later in American history the Quarter Horse played a large role in the pioneers westward expansion. The breeds agility proved invaluable to cowboys farmers and those who needed reliable transportation over rough terrain. Although the breed has existed since the 1600s the American Quarter Horse Association registry wasnt established until 1940 1
American Quarter Horse Size
Quarter Horses range in size but are compact and typically stand between 14 3 hands 56 inches and 16 hands 64 inches in height. They have a sturdy build and come in many colors though sorrel brownish red is the most common. Weights of 950 to 1200 pounds or more are common in this bulky breed.
American Quarter Horse Uses
The exceptionally versatile