Ireland’s relationship with horses is deeply rooted in its history, culture, and landscape. This small island nation has earned a reputation as the “Land of the Horse” for good reason as horses have been integral to Irish culture for millennia. Archaeological evidence suggests that horses were present in Ireland as …
Gaited horses are a specific category of horse breeds that possess unique, smooth, and natural gaits in addition to the traditional horse gaits of walking, trotting, and cantering/galloping. These additional gaits are often referred to as “ambling” gaits and are characterised by their smooth, evenly spaced footfalls. The presence of …
The classification of horses as hot, warm, and cold bloods can be confusing. As mammals all horses are warm-blooded – they don’t need to lie around in the sun to summon energy for the day, although some do like to! These classifications are based on their temperament, build, and historical …
The Shetland pony, a small equine breed originating from the remote Shetland Islands in Scotland, stands as a testament to the enduring charm of these little but hardy ponies. With a history that spans centuries, these ponies have evolved from indispensable workhorses to beloved companions and champions in various equestrian …
Ponies are small equines that belong to the same family as horses. They are characterised by their diminutive stature, typically measuring less than 14.2 hands (58 inches or 147 centimetres) at the withers (the highest point on the back, located between the shoulder blades). However, the exact height cut-off to …
The Mustang is a breed of feral horse that is native to the western United States and it holds a unique place in the history of the United States. Mustangs are known for their hardiness, agility, and stamina – traits that they have developed over generations since their ancestors arrived …
From the vast plains of the American West to the bustling streets of modern cities, the thundering hooves and steadfast spirit of the Quarter Horse have woven themselves into the fabric of American history. Proudly bearing the title of America’s first native horse breed, the Quarter Horse has left an …
Mules and donkeys are fascinating animals that have played an important role in human history for thousands of years. While they are often lumped together, mules and donkeys are two distinct species that have different physical and behavioural characteristics. Mules and donkeys both belong to the genus Equus, which also …
The Arabian horse is one of the oldest horse breeds developed by humans. With its distinctive dished head shape and high tail carriage, the Arabian is one of the most easily recognisable horse breeds in the world. It is believed that the breed originated in the Arabian Peninsula, which is …
