Arabian Horse: Breed profile with History
The Arabian horse is a very recognizable breed among the most loved horses in the world. The Arabian is well known for its physical, and, in particular, its beautiful appearance, and for its spirited but loyal temperament, and is also known for its great historic importance as a breed and horse.
I’ve taken you through everything from its origin to its features in this guide, including characteristics of the Arabian horse, the type of care it requires, and its uses in general.
They have been used to influence many of the modern light horse breeds as well various pony and warm-blood breeds, their elegance and intelligence establishing a legacy that remains very much part of equine culture.
History of the Arabian Horse
The Arabian horse goes back more than 4,500 years, when it was bred by the Bedouins of the deserts of the Middle East. The Arabian horse gained such value to these nomadic tribes for its stamina and speed as well as its excellent disposition.
The Arabian later became a symbol of wealth and its lineage was preserved so carefully that it remained pure, of the oldest known horse breeds.
Their striking appearance and durability made the Arabian a much wished for breed which spread to Europe and beyond. Arabians’ influence on so many breeds today includes the Thoroughbred, Quarter Horse, and Morgan by way of crossbreeding.
Today, the Arabian horse plays an integral part in worldwide Arabian horse show activities as well as benefiting Arabian horse families as a warm companion animadversion the already evident care and consideration that should be extended to Arabian horses.
Arabian horses were introduced to the United States in 1700, and eventually led to formation of Arabian Horse Registry America back in this year names American registry.
Arabian Horse Physical Characteristics
The physical characteristics of Arabian horses are unmistakable, for they are both pretty and useful. Here are some defining characteristics:
Head Shape: The Arabian is also noted for its small, refined head with a characteristic “dished” (slightly concave across the bridge of the nose). This feature lends the Arabian a circus appearance; an almost exotic kind of elegance.
Large Eyes and Nostrils: Arabian horses have an alert intelligent look from large expressive eyes and wide nostrils. They also perform better with their vision and respiratory systems.
Arched Neck and Short Back: In addition to which the breed has a gracefully arched neck and a short back with a high tail carriage, all of which also makes the breed distinctive. But the Arabian has a skeleton all its own, featuring typically one fewer lumbar vertebrae and tail vertebrae than other breeds to form a compact, balanced frame.
Size of Arabian Horses
Arabians are generally a little smaller than most other horse breeds, standing 14.1 to 15.1 hands high and weighing 800 to 1,000 pounds. As one would expect, they are smaller in stature, yet they are strong and very endurance and as such are formidable athletes.
Arabian Horse Colors
Arabians are found in a variety of coat colors, although they are most commonly seen in the following:
- Bay: Rich reddish brown with black points (from mane to tail to lower legs).
- Gray: Arabians often begin with a dark coat but turn gray to white with age.
- Chestnut: A deep coppery in color which ranges from light to dark shades.
- Black: Although rare, black Arabians are thought to be prized for their distinctive look.
Besides these, you may see roan and sabino patterns, but pure white Arabians are a rarity.
Temperament and Personality
The Arabian horse’s spirited, yet still gentle nature is well known. Arabians are known to be loyal, intelligent and very responsive and they have good relationships with their owners / handlers. As social animals with a natural inquisitiveness to please they are very trainable in a wide variety of disciplines.
But because of their spirited nature, they aren’t always the horses for novice riders. Arabians tend to be sensitive so they do better in a positive and gentle training method and with an experienced handler who knows how they’re supposed to be.
Types of Arabian Horses
Arabian horses come in several distinct types, each with unique attributes and characteristics. Understanding these variations is essential for anyone interested in this remarkable breed.
Strains and Bloodlines
Arabian horses are divided into various strains and bloodlines, which help determine their traits and abilities. Key strains include Egyptian, Polish, Russian, Spanish, Crabbet, and Shagya.
- Egyptian Arabian: Known for their refinement and strong lineage, they often display a graceful and noble appearance.
- Polish Arabian: These horses are recognised for their athleticism and endurance, making them popular in competition.
- Russian Arabian: This strain is noted for its robust build and adaptability in harsh environments.
Each bloodline has distinct qualities, affecting everything from coat colour to temperament. The careful breeding practices for these strains contribute to their recognised histories and significant traits. This makes understanding their lineage crucial for enthusiasts and breeders alike.
Uses and Versatility of the Arabian Horse
Compared to other breeds, Arabians are equally as versatile and excel at several disciplines. Some of the most popular uses for the Arabian include:
- Endurance Riding: Amongst the best for long distance endurance events, Arabians are known for their stamina. They have the background in the desert to be able to walk long distances without getting weary.
- Dressage and Show Jumping: Arabians are uber agile, intelligent and responsive beings, making them perfect in disciplines that require precision and finesse from ride — dressage and show jumping.
- Recreational Riding: Arabians are kept by many people for pleasure riding. And because of their gentleness and loyalty, they make excellent trail riding and leisure companions.
- Showing and Halter Competitions: They are popular in the show ring where separate classes determine their conformation and general appearance by judging their halter classes. Most often, their beauty and charisma make them show stoppers.
Care and Maintenance
Owners of Arabian horses know that they enjoy the rewarding process, but require work. Here’s what I would consider to ensure an Arabian remains healthy and happy:
- Diet and Nutrition: Arabians have a naturally high metabolism so they need a balanced diet that provides lots of energy without extra weight gain. Keeping them in top condition will require a diet of high quality forage (hay and grass) with all the necessary vitamins and minerals. Your pup may also require some additional supplements based on their activity level and they need it.
- Exercise Needs: Arabians are also fine with regular exercise. Arabians need to move to stay healthy whether it’s riding, training, turnout in a large pasture…or anything. Exercise isn’t just good for their body but good for their mental well being too.
- Grooming and Coat Care: Maintaining an Arabian’s coat and skin is important and requires frequent regular grooming. For this reason, because they have sensitive skin, they are very sensitive and you need to keep them gently groomed so that they remain clean and comfortable. In addition, routine hoof care, dental check ups and veterinary visits are all necessary.
- Health Issues: Arabians are usually hardy but are prone to particular genetic disorders including Lavender Foal Syndrome and Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID). Common genetic disorders are tested for and potential owners will want to ensure that the horse they are considering has been tested.
Feeding and Nourishment
Arabian horses require a diet balanced in nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats (energy), minerals and vitamins along with water. What does it eat:
- Grains
- Fresh grass
- High-quality hay
- Treats–fruits and veggies on occasion
Because Arabians were developed in desert countries having the poorest of feed conditions, they may require slightly less feed per pound live weight than similarly sized breeds to maintain good health. Remember to not feed too much while keeping them healthy by providing a balanced diet.
Common Behavioural Problems and Health Issues
- Genetic Health Problems – While potentially more serious, many like Arabian horses may have known genetic health issues. Notable disorders include:
- Severe combined immunodeficiency: Foals are born without an immune system and die rapidly from opportunistic infections.
- Lavender Foal Syndrome: Individual foals are affected and it is usually fatal due to severe neurological signs.
- Cerebellar abiotrophy: A frequently fatal neurological deficit that manifests as in coordination and lack of balance, usually seen at a young age.
- Arabian horses are widely observed as a social and smart horse breed. Despite the fact that they generally develop strong bonds with humans, their sensitive nature can be stressful and lead to bad behaviours if not handled appropriately.
More experienced riders tend to find them good-matured and willing companions.
Grooming
Arabian Horse grooming is necessary to keep their coat and skin in perfect condition. They need a good brushing every day especially after work or hard exercise which helps to distribute sweat and natural oils.
Running a brush through their mane and tail after giving them Kizz means spending hours pulling brambles out, by using some sort of dangler you can save yourself that time.
Regular cleaning, checking for injuries and general well being is part of hoof maintenance.
Pros:
- Intelligent
- Sociable
- Athletic
Cons:
- Tends to get bored quickly
- Needs a Handler with Experience
- A Champion and Celebrity Arabian
Champion and Celebrity Arabian Horses
The history of the Arabian horse reaches back thousands… They have accompanied dignitaries, won championships and charmed audiences through various media.
Notable examples include:
- Marengo: Napoleon Bonaparte’s most famed cavalry charge derived from Alexandria.
- Skowronek – an important ancestor of Historian and the influence for many North American Arabian breeds.
- Cass Ole: Played the title role in one of my all-time favourite books, Walter Farley’s compelling read ” The Black Stallion,” which was also a movie.
- Bucephalus: The famed marshal of Alexander the Great.
- Magnolia: The much-loved mount of George Washington.
Choosing an Arabian Horse: What to Consider
If you are considering bringing an Arabian horse into your life, driving home is something you should consider.
These horses certainly have all the earmarks of an outstanding companion and competitive partner, but they also have needs and personality traits of their own.
Here’s what I would consider when choosing an Arabian:
- Purpose and Discipline: Consider why you’re getting a horse in the first place; whether you’re into endurance riding, show competition, or recreational riding. Arabians are wonderful in several different areas but some lines are bred for the show horse and some lines are famed for their endurance. Know what you want and then search for the horse to fill your goals.
- Training and Experience Level: Not all Arabians are right for beginners especially those that have higher energy and sensitivity. Yet some of the temperament in these animals is so docile some may be more suitable for less experienced riders and some may require an experienced handler. A well trained and responsive Arabian will help if you’re new to the breed.
- Pedigree and Lineage: If you are looking for that, depending on performance or entering competitions, it is a good thing to consider the horse’s lineage. When you buy Arabians from good breeders, you are getting pedigrees that prove their genetic background – or lack thereof – for possible athleticism, stamina, or even predisposition to genetic health problems.
- Health and Soundness: It is essential that the horse is tested for Arabian genetic diagnosed conditions. You will look for a horse that is clean, sound, with a sound conformation and well formed hooves—these are things that will contribute to length of time health and performance.
- Personality Fit: There is no one ideal Arabian horse and no one ideal Arabian horse person. But it is generally true that there are horses that will fit you, your goals and your temperament, and horses that you will not harmonize with. Take time with the horse and then make a final call. Training is less tiresome, and handling is more fun for both of you if a good match exists.
How to Adopt a Buying or Arabian Horse
Arabian Price You will likely pay anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000 for an Arabian horse. Some horses of high-quality bloodlines, or wild colors can go for some big money. Since they are a popular breed, Arabians can frequently be found at reputable rescues or breeders.
If looking at horses, make sure the group has a complete record of its health, his behaviour and where he came from. We suggest that you have a licensed veterinarian examine your kitty comprehensively before making any decisions to be sure everything is OK.
The organisation will demonstrate the training and potential owners to spend time with this horse. However, if the organisation becomes non-communicative at any point or tries to push a buyer through too quickly – other options are always out there.
Additional Horse Breeds
If our article has enticed you, have a look at these other horse breeds:
Go to all horse breed profiles.
