BREED SHOWCASE – ARABIAN

History

The Arabian is the oldest pure breed. Evidence suggests it first appeared on the Arabian peninsula around 2500 B.C. It came first to Europe with the invading Muslim armies in the 8th and 9th centuries. It soon influenced local breeds. Arab blood is the main source of the Thoroughbred, and has brought back many desirable qualities to many different breeds. The Arab's hardiness, resilience, and soundness, along with its spirited character and beautiful movements, make it a very desirable breed.

Appearance

The Arabian horse is striking. Its entire appearance exudes energy, intelligence, courage and nobility. The neck is long and arched, the back is short, and the tail is naturally carried high. Arabians, at liberty, will move in a unique "floating trot" that is graceful and beautiful to watch.

In general, Arabians have a short, straight back (usually one less vertebra than is common with other breeds), perfect balance and symmetry, a deep chest, well-sprung ribs, strong legs of thick density and a more horizontal pelvic bone position.

The Arabian's head features small, tipped-in ears, a tiny "teacup" muzzle, large nostrils and large, expressive, dark eyes set wide apart.

Characterized by its chiseled appearance, the Arabian head is frequently enhanced by a slight protrusion, called the "jibbah," over the forehead that extends to just below the eyes.

The Arabian horse averages 14.1 to 15.1 hands at the withers, although many are above or below this height. In color, Arabians are bay, gray, chestnut and black, with an occasional roan.

Uses

The traits that were bred into the Arabian through ancient times created a versatile horse that is not only a beautiful breed, but one that excels at many activities. Considered the best breed for distances, the Arabian's superior endurance and stamina enable him to consistently win competitive trail and endurance rides.

The most popular activity with all horse owners is recreational riding – the Arabian horse is no exception. The loyal, willing nature of the Arabian breed suits itself as the perfect family horse. His affectionate personality also makes him a great horse for children.

In the show ring the Arabian is exceptional in English and Western pleasure competition. The Arabian is well known for his balance and agility. Combined with his high intelligence and skillful footwork, he is more than capable in driving and reining events. Arabians compete in almost 400 All Arabian shows as well as in numerous open shows around the U.S. and Canada.

The Arabian, as the original racehorse, is becoming more and more popular competing at racetracks throughout the country. Arabians race distances similar to Thoroughbreds, with more than 500 all-Arabian races held throughout the U.S. annually.

For More Information

Books

• Horse: The Complete Guide, by Mary Gordon Watson
• The Big Book of Horses, by Fran Ames & Lesley Bayley

Websites

• www.arabianhorses.org - The Arabian Horse Association
• www.arabian-horse.com - Garrett Arabians- Cairo, Egypt
• www.pyramidarabians.com - Egyptian Arabian Horses

© 2006 by Warren Wechsler for Horse Talk Radio