History of the Arab/Arabian Horse

The Arab or Arabian horse originates from the desert lands of Asia and the most famous are the horses of the Bedouin Arabs, known as the Original or Elite Arab. Through selective breeding the Bedouins developed an Arab horse which was tough and yet beautiful. It was these Arab horses that were used as a calvary horse by the Moslems and taken to North Africa and into Spain and France. Many Arab horses were left behind when the Moslems left and were left to breed with local horses creating such breeds as the Andalusian horse. The UK imported Arab horses in the late nineteeth and early twentieth century from Arabia.

Height of the Arab/ArabianHorse

The Arab horse stands 14.1 to 15 hh.

Colour of the Arab/ArabianHorse

Arab horses are most usually bay or chestnut but grey is also seen.

Characteristics of the Arab/ArabianHorse

The Arab horse has a small head with concave profile, large eyes and small muzzle, arched neck, sloping shoulder, strong level back, strong hindquarters, strong legs. Tail carried high, fast and free action, plenty of stamina.

Temperament of the Arab/ArabianHorse

Arab horses are brave, spirited and intelligent.

Uses of the Arab/Arabian Horse

The Arab horse is used as a general riding horse, for horse racing, and is particularly suited to endurance.