Morgan Horse: Breed Profile Complete Overview
Morgan horses are an old breed of horses which have always been the epitome of passion and love for most of the equestrians, breeders and lovers of horses. These are characterized by their strength, agility and ability to endure in combat David and Mccleod, 2008). Morgans are characterized for being a breed both fast and versatile.
Whether I am a passenger of a Morgan horse in the field or seeing them perform during a show, I have developed an interest in Morgan horses.
Breed Overview
- Weight: 900 to 1,000 pounds
- Height: 14 hands (56 inches) to 15 hands (60 inches)
- Body Type: Compact, muscular build; short head with wide forehead; large, expressive eyes; high head and tail carriage; thick mane and tail
- Best For: Owners and riders of all levels, including children
- Life Expectancy: 30 years
The Historic Origins of the Morgan Horse Breed
When we trace the origins of the Morgan horse breed, we find ourselves back in late 18th-century America. This breed began with a single stallion named Figure, later renamed Justin Morgan after his owner.
Justin Morgan, a teacher and musician, recognized Figure’s unusual strength, agility, and gentle nature.It was the first horse that developed in America.
Vermont citizens, in particular, are well acquainted with Morgan horses. In fact, the Morgan horse is so widely desired that its home state,’ Vermont, made it their state mammal in 1961.
Currently, you’ll find many books that contain information about Morgan horses, and there is even a film on this topic as well. Marguerite Henry authored a book in 1945, its title was Justin Morgan Had a Horse.
The book is an actualization of the incident of Justin Morgan and Figure. Still the author didn’t know everything about the actual story though. Some of the events described she had to depict in her mind’s eye. Unlike a biography, the book is a work of history fiction.
The American Morgan Horse Association was established in 1909 to serve as a breed registry.
Morgan’s Horse Size and Weight
Morgan are smaller than other horse breeds. Morgan horse standard size is 14 hands (56 inches) to 15 hands (60 inches) tall. There is no standard size, many horses may be shorter and many may be taller. Morgan’s horse is known for its powerful stance and stamina.
Morgan horses weigh between 900 to 1100 pound’s. These horses are small and easy to handle.
How Fast can Morgan Horse run?
What is the average speed of a Morgan horse when running?
Generally, Morgan horses can run with an average pace of 20-25 mph. So unlike their sporty cousins, they are endowed with a steady speed that can be perfect for distance riding especially on trails. Different from races that are bred for short end spurts, Morgans can sustain this speed for considerable distance and are not easily weary due to their endurance.
How Fast Can a Morgan Horse Run?
If trained properly, the Morgans can run up to 30 miles per an hour. This type of speed demands an effort of short, sharp acceleration and tracing fitness levels. Morgans are able to sustain speed over small distances but are not really designed for long sprints at this top speed.
Morgan Horse Breeding and Uses
As we see, this horse was bred for athletic power, coproative nature and versitility. I find the Morgan’s charming ability, as this breed excels in diverse environments and roles.
Morgans were used as trotting horses on the race track and cavalry mounts in wartime. They also were hitched to wagons or ridden by pioneers who were traveling to the American West.
Morgan Horses are certainly versatile, and you can breed them for trail riding, carriage and driving, dressage, show jumping and even western riding. Namely, their temperament and willingness set them as perfect horses for beginners, families and experienced riders as well.
Another reason why people love the breed is that the Morgan Horse can adapt well to changing work demands. I have learned that their reasonable intelligence and willingness to obey makes them easy to manage, hence their use in riding schools, equine-assisted therapy and as family companion horses.
Colors and Markings
Morgan Horses again can be of various colors, but most often they are of bay, chestnut or black color. But while most Morgans are of this range of color some also exist in different shades with other colors being palomino, buckskin and sometimes even gray.
These colors come with other small white markings on the face or limbs to make every Morgan horse posse different. This is especially going to be important, I think the channel of the colors and markings adds to this; it is always great to see the difference in each horse, despite being of the same breed, they always don’t feel like clones to each other.
These color variations are due to the breed genetics. Selective breeding has also continued to keep the Morgans looking distinct while at the same time accepting a number of color and markings.
Characteristics of Morgan Horses
Two of the most desired favorable characteristics that people, including me, like in Morgan Horses are their gentleness and obedience. They are intelligent, curious, and have a tendency to live alongside humans, which is why Fellows are easy to train and great company.
Most Morgans carry the nickname of “people horses” because of their friendly temperament and devotion to their caretakers.
Another unique feature that was established about Morgan Horses is their hardiness. These horses are eager and willing to work but at the same time sensible: all of that makes them suitable for competitive riding as for family riding.
This makes them favorite in different equestrian establishments because they are so versatile and they can be reared in different climes.
Also, this is a warmblood breed that needs shelter and protection against the elements when it’s too cold, hot, or humid.
Diet and Nutrition Needs
It is therefore important to feed the Morgan Horse with proper balance diet to enhance its health. Morgans like most horses require a diet that is mostly made up of fiber from fresh pasture and quality hay.
They also feed them little amounts of grain or concentrate which should depend on their age, weight and activity degrees. If not well monitored, Morgans tend to be overweight, so I have always ensured that whatever they consume is monitored closely.
They need a balanced diet to avoid shortage of vitamins and minerals for their muscles and energy. Still, having balanced diets, with frequent supplies of fresh water besides salt and mineral supplements help to keep them healthy all the time.
Health and Behaviour of Morgan Horses
Morgan Horses themselves are usually healthy and robust but, like any horse, are prone to certain diseases including laminitis, colic, and different respiratory ailments. The diseases likely to affect this animal can be avoided through; frequent visits to the veterinarian, Immunization, and proper environment sanitation.
For myself, I believe that it is safer to prevent a Morgan Horse from getting sick because, for the most part, they are hearty stock and require little intervention for them to benefit from it.
This is another behaviour that makes them unique. Morgans, in general, ranked low in nervousness, were highly ranked in both curiosity and response, and were suitable for the novice and experienced rider.
It is famous for its friendly and gregarious behaviour that permits relatively simple management and obedience training.
Grooming Essentials for Morgan Horses
Bathing is also a necessity when it comes to raising a Morgan Horse and also it is the most natural time to practice this exercise. I normally use curry comb in the preliminary stage to loosen the dirt and instigate blood circulation, then use a stiff brush to remove any loose dirt.
They benefit from brushing their mane and tail to make it easy freeing from tangles more so if they are to be prepared for shows.
There are also regional variations that need to be made for example you cannot shave them during the dry season because they will be cold and during the wet season you cannot fail to brush them because their coat will be unhealthy.
Morgan Horse basic grooming tools require a hoof pick, mane comb, body brush, and a good quality shampoo for infrequent washing.
Pros of Morgan Horses
- Friendly
- Cooperative and trainable
- Generally easy to maintain
Cons of Morgan Horses
- Prone to becoming overweight if improperly fed
- Genetic risk of polysaccharide storage myopathy
- Risk of developing metabolic disorders
Notable Morgan Horses
Over the years there have been a number of very famous Morgan Horses. Among those horses, one represents the breed’s base stallion, known by the name of Figure, and whose influence can be traced in the horse’s breeding realm.
Other well known Morgan Horses are Linsley who had played a significant role in forming the breed standard and Black Hawk which happened to be a strength and beautiful Morgane.
These famous horses are representative of noble characteristics of Morgan horses for their strength and devotion, and their ride ability and work capacity.
Is the Morgan Horse Right for You?
Selecting a Morgan Horse is therefore not an easy process, it needs some considerations. The owners of this breed of horses describe the Morgan as friendly, intelligent and versatile, which makes this lovely creature an ideal choice for everyone.
They are versatile with all types of owners whether one is a family member, first time rider, or an experienced equestrian.
Some things you might want to think about include, the type of riding you envision for yourself, how you spend your spare time, and the amount of time you can commit to maintaining Morgan Horse.
How to Adopt or Buy a Morgan Horse
To acquire a Morgan Horse one needs to know something about the breed and acquisition process. Consulting the right breeders or adoption centers would help you acquire a healthy and socially well-bred Morgan.
The next recommendation I have is that people should consider setting a budget not only for the first time purchase but for some other expenses like the operating expenses of the livestock, including the veterinary fees and feed for the animals, as well as the equipment involved.
You should also get a vet check running before making a final decision because this will allow their owner to have an indication of the health complications of the dog. The various hours spent in the process of constructing a relationship with a breeder or an adoption agency are worth it as you are guaranteed of finding the right Morgan to take home.
Conclusion
Horses from the Morgan Farms can be described as a unique breed that has a long history behind and numerous abilities. Their use in many equestrian related fields and their temperaments make them good family horses, Morgans are great if one then takes the time and effort to care for them. When looking at a Morgan Horse for purchase you are assured of a committed and energetic companion that will add value to your horsemanship for a long time to come.
Exploring More Horse Breeds
It is important to know that Morgan Horses are good but there are other breeds which may fit the bill or desires of the owner. Every breed has its special features; it is possible to begin with the American Quarter Horse, Arabian and Thoroughbred breeds. It is just useful in case potential horse owners try to decide which of these breeds is better to choose.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average life expectancy of a Morgan horse?
Morgan Horses’ lifetime expectancy is between 20 and 30 years of age in case they are well taken care of.
Is the Morgan Horse appropriate for inexperienced people?
Yes, it has been established that since they are friendly and calm dragons they are perfect for beginners.
What does it cost to purchase a Morgan Horse?
The average cost can range from as low as $2,000 and as high as $10,000 depending on age, training and pedigree.
Where is the ideal habitat for a Morgan Horse?
Morgans adapt well but do best in large spaces with frequent outdoor exercise.
How much exercise does a Morgan Horse need?
They need daily turn out, and expected ridden work in a structured manner on a daily basis.
