Horse Breeds of the Week – Arabian, AraAppaloosa & Arabian-Berber

Today we learn more about three different horse breeds of the world & these three are all connected by Arabian blood.

Pleased to Introduce

The breeds for this week all come from the granddaddy of many horse breeds, the mighty and beautiful Arabian whose blood has refined many a modern breed. Today we’ll also take a look at the colorful AraAppaloosa & the ancient Arabian-Berber cross.

With their well-shaped ears, arched neck and high-set tail the Arabian is one of the most physically appealing (and recognizable) of all horse breeds.

Arabian

The Arabian horse is not just one bloodline, there are hundreds and hundreds of types bred in isolation from one another. Each one bears a slightly different confirmation, however they all retain basic physical characteristics.

These animals date back roughly to 2500 BC and have been bred for centuries by Bedouin tribes on the Arabian Peninsula.

A Strong Tradition

Over the years the Arabian became very ingrained in Muslim tradition and the Muslim conflicts in the 7th century AD were instrumental in spreading the breed.

In more recent times Arabians have become increasingly popular throughout the world, loved for their high endurance, fleeting speed, handsome looks and versatility. This is a breed found in almost all disciplines and aspects of the horse industry.

AraAppaloosa

Said to be the original Appaloosa horse, the AraAppaloosa animals are thought to have been a foundation of the Arabian breed.

Artistic Reference

Art from centuries past found in both the Middle East & Egypt clearly depict spotted animals, so it is believed that these animals made their way up through Spain during Moorish occupation and then taken to the Americas.

Today there is a registry in the US dedicated specifically to the breed in the hopes of combining the best elements of the two breeds.

Arabian-Berber

The Arabian-Berber is a cross between two ancient bloodlines the Arabian & the Barb and was initially developed by Moroccan tribesmen as a warhorse.

Building the Perfect Desert Horse

This cross drew from the finest characteristics of both desert breeds and the resulting animal was bold, fearless, versatile and highly adapted to a hostile desert environment. Some of these animals are known to display a tolt gait, making them even easier to ride over long distances.

Today this is one of the most popular breeds found in North Africa and their popularity has grown throughout Europe.

More to Come

Be sure to check back next week when I’ll share info about a few more cousins of the Arabian, the lovely Arabo-Friesian, the adorable Arab-Haflinger & the mighty Araboulonnais.