The American Saddlebred is a breed of hot-blooded horses that originated in the United States, specifically in Kentucky. This breed is known for its high-stepping forward movement, its ability to learn, and its performance of the fifth gait known as the rack, as well as its exaggerated movement.
In this article from the Teke Trek website, we will talk about the American Saddlebred, its breed origin, diet, key characteristics, and uses.
Origin of the American Saddlebred Breed
The American saddle horse is one of the best horses in the world. It is known as “the horse that made history” because its development was closely linked to the needs of the New World over the centuries. Its story begins at the beginning of the 18th century, when thoroughbred horses were imported into the North American colonies and crossed with a recently developed colonial breed, the Narragansett Pacer.
The Narragansett Pacer was bred as a smooth and elegant riding horse and was very popular in the American colonies, where it was exported to other New World colonies in large numbers.
The breed had a thick mane and tail, a long and elevated neck, a slender body and limbs, and a comfortable and striking movement. When crossbred with thoroughbreds, these traits were retained within a larger and more athletic body.
As these horses went west with the pioneers, Morgan and Arabian blood was introduced to further improve the breed.
This type of horse became so common that its characteristics were only recognized with difficulty until the American Civil War, where it simply became known as the American horse or Kentucky Saddler.
Distinctive American Saddlebred characteristics
- The American Saddlebred is known as the “peacock of the horse world” thanks to its beauty, stunning movement, and proud demeanor.
- The breed’s most famous feature is the two additional gaits that many American Saddlebreds can naturally perform: the “slow gait” and the “rack.”
- Both gaits have four beats and are very comfortable for the rider, with a high-stepping movement that can be accentuated with special shoes.
- The American Saddlebred has a long and relatively flat head, usually with kind and expressive eyes, and American Saddlebred size is medium, beautiful ears.
- It has a long neck raised on its shoulders to allow for more forward movement, and the neck is also strong and arched.
- Other distinctive features of the American Saddlebred include its very smooth head, which is raised high on its long, arched neck, its strong back, straight and clean legs, and its long, flowing, elevated tail.
- The American Saddlebred can appear in several colors, especially American Saddlebred colors are chestnut, bay, brown, and black, which are the most common.
- The American Saddlebred height typically ranges from 140 to 170 cm. American Saddlebreds are intelligent, sound, and easy to train, and can be used for a variety of purposes.
- Although this breed appears enthusiastic, fiery, and impressive in the ring, American Saddlebreds are actually calm and easy to handle horses.
Diet of the American Saddlebred
The American Saddlebred breed generally does well on a diet consisting of grass, concentrated feeds, and hay.
Show horses may need a more precise diet to help them perform well in the ring.
However, sometimes owners should consider providing these horses with special grains designed to help them gain additional energy for their performance.
How long do American Saddlebreds live?
- Saddlebreds live between 25 and 30 years, which is the average lifespan for horses in terms of size and type.
- The reason American Saddlebreds do not live longer than this is partly due to the way riders ride the horse.
- Saddle seat riders ride on the weakest part of the horse’s back, causing their backs to deteriorate faster.
- Weighted shoes may also affect their safety, causing health problems that may shorten their lifespan.
Frequently Asked Questions About the American Saddlebred
- How much does it cost to buy an American Saddlebred?
The cost of an American Saddlebred can range from $10,000 to $100,000 unless you are adopting or rescuing one.
- How tall is the American Saddlebred?
The height of the American Saddlebred ranges from 140 to 170 cm.
- What is the origin of the American Saddlebred horses?
The American Saddlebred breed originated in Kentucky, where it was officially registered in 1891.
- Are American Saddlebreds good for beginner’s riders?
Yes, American Saddlebreds are great horses for beginners due to their calm and friendly temperament.
- What is the diet of the American Saddlebred?
Following a diet consisting of grass, concentrated feeds, and hay yields a good response.
- What is the reason for the short lifespan of the American Saddlebred?
The lifespan of the horse is relatively short because saddle seat riders ride on the weakest part of the horse’s back, causing the horses’ backs to deteriorate faster.
- Can American Saddlebreds jump?
Yes, American Saddlebreds can jump in an excellent way.
- Is American Saddlebred a Warmblood?
Yes, American Saddlebred is a Warmblood.
- Are American Saddlebreds naturally gaited?
It has three natural gaits, where it walks with four strokes and hits each leg on the ground at different moments.
In conclusion, the American Saddlebred is a wonderful horse enjoyed by a diverse group of riders. From beginners to experienced show riders, this breed can easily meet the needs and preferences of its riders. With its flowing mane and tail, along with its natural high-stepping gait, this horse excels over other types in the show ring.
