Arabian Horses - The elegant equine
Arabian Horses are the oldest of pure-bred equines and the starting place of all other horse breeds. Dating back to approximately 3000 BC, they originated from the Arab Peninsula, where the Bedouins not only bred them, but also held them in high regard. Believing that “Allah” created the Arabian Horses, Bedouin breeders went to great lengths to maintain the purity and integrity of this horse by preventing cross-breeding. Because of the harsh desert climate, and the fact that they were a horse of war, Arabian Horses were bred for high endurance, courage, and strength. Since the bloodline has not been tampered with, Arabian Horses maintain those unique qualities to this day.
In the late 17th century, the Byerly Turk, Darley and Godolphin Stallions were transported to England, and the majority of Arabian Horses, today, can be traced back to the linage of those three equines. The first Arabians were imported to America in the early 1700’s, and they have since become one of the most popular breeds in the world, particularly in the United States. In 1908, a Registry for Arabian Horses was organized, and continues to uphold the integrity of this fine breed. The Registry web page is also a terrific information source.
The Arabian’s height averages between 14.2 and 15 hands, and their color is bay, black, brown, chestnut, gray or white. Sometimes they have white markings on their face and legs. The average weight falls between 800 and 1,000 pounds. Arabian’s faces are a little indented between their eyes and nose. Their expressive eyes are widely spaced apart. Its neck can be arched so much so that it matches the arch in its tail. Their long manes and tails are full, and the Arabian’s coat is fine and silky in the summer. In the winter, the Arabian’s coat is thick with a protective undercoating. A unique trait of Arabian Horses is the high carriage of its tail. This is contributed to the breed’s bone structure. Most equines have 18 ribs, 6 lumbar bones, and 18 tail vertebrae. In contrast, Arabians only have 17 ribs, 5 lumbar bones, and 16 tail vertebrae.
Arabian Horses like to remain active, as it is in their blood to not be penned up. They are athletic, very fast, highly intelligent, beautiful, brave, gentle, and love to please their owners. For centuries, Arabians have been extremely respected and socialized, and therefore have no problems bonding with people. Owners of this equine breed enjoy trial horseback riding or entering their horse in shows. Because they have flat knees, they aren’t terrific show jumpers, but it is not surprising that Arabian Horses almost always win in the endurance events!