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Breeders are not the only ones who have the knowledge of different horse breeds. Many horse lovers do, too. The history of horse breeding as well as the features of different breeds are interesting learning that can give you a better understanding of these magnificent creatures.

History of Horses

To understand horse breeds, it is important to first understand how the relationship between humans and horses began. Believe it or not, horses first became valuable to humans because they produced milk and could be eaten. Later on, however, humans realised that horses were strong and fast and began to use them to carry or draw loads and as a mode of transportation.

Now, horses are no longer just used to do labors. Rather, they are more often kept for sports or leisure riding. Hence, people are breeding horses to serve the different needs by human beings.

Breeding Horses

In order for the new-born horses to carry certain traits, breeders usually need to select specific male and female horses with the desired characteristics to mate. With the success of purposeful breeding, more horses are now bred in planned ways to meet specific needs. A widely known example is the racing horses. In fact, there are different registries around the world that document the various horse breeds.

It might be boring for an average person to learn the different horse breeds, but this is not the case for horse lovers. This is especially true for someone who is fond of horse racing or simply would like to get himself a horse. Often, knowing the breed of your horse would tell you what the horse is capable of doing and whether its price is truly justified.

Classification of Horses

Despite the vast number of horse breeds, horses are generally placed under three main groups - pony, light, and heavy horses.

Most of us would probably already be familiar with ponies. These are definitely the smallest of horses. Some would even not consider them horses at all. Even so, ponies can be as hardy as other horses. Some breeds can carry adult riders and pull heavy loads. Because of their size and mild nature, ponies are often kept as pets by children. Examples of pony breeds are the Shetland and Welsh ponies.

Next to ponies are the light horses. Some of the breeds under this group are the beautiful Arabian and the fast Thoroughbred. Other breeds are the Quarter Horse, Appaloosa and Morgan. These horses are primarily meant to be ridden for fun or for sport. In the past, they were popularly used to pull light wagons, carts, carriages or chaises.

There are also horses that are considered heavy horses like the Percheron and Lipizzaner breeds. You can well imagine these breeds as the preferred horses of ancient and medieval warriors. The horses had the power and mettle to carry men into battle. Of course, heavy horses were also preferred for heavy work in barns and farms.

If you want to get a horse of your own, you only have to ask yourself what traits you would like your horse to have. Since there are just so many different horse breeds to choose from, you are sure to find the one that will fit your purpose and preference.

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