Horse
Breed Description:
The American Indian breed of horse is not technically a distinct breed, but one of many with a common history and ancestry. These are all horses which have remained strong in constitution, adapting to the conditions of the geographical region of America in which they thrive. They also have common bloodlines dating back to the horses brought to the Americas by the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century, and later identified with the Plains Indians. The modern Spanish Barb, Mustang, Appaloosa, Desert Dun and American Sulphur are just some of the breeds encompassed within the category of American Indian breed of horse. The American Indian breed of horse may be any color, from solid to roan to spotted. It does not have the small feet and heavy hind musculature of the Quarter horse, nor the straight long legs of other modern breeds. For the purposes of registry, it is categorized in five separate groups: Class A - a horse of unknown pedigree, such as the wild Mustang of the American West. Class AA - a horse which has a recorded pedigree proving it has a 50% shared genetic heritage with the tribe horses of the Native Americans. Class M - a horse which has a modern type pedigree but shares a common history with all horses in the group, such as the Quarter Horse or Desert Dun. Class O - a horse which shares a pedigree with specific horses of a specific tribe of Native Americans. Class P - a pony which shares the characteristics and history of the American Indian breed of horse.
Temperament:
The American Indian breed of horse is renowned for its loyalty and its intelligence. It is always physically and mentally tough.
Height:
Averages from 13 to 15 hands, or 52" to 60" at the withers.
Weight:
The American Indian breed of horse averages 700 to 1000 pounds.
Health Problems:
Health problems are few in relation to the modern breeds of horses; the American Indian breed of horse rarely exhibits nervous, digestive or muscular problems associated with many breeds.
Living Conditions:
The American Indian breed of horse, due to its classical toughness, can be pastured for much of the year, except for extremes of heat or cold.
Origin:
The conquistadors who came to the new world in the 16th century brought with them their horses, which were originally derived from the Arabian, and later crossed with the Spanish Barb. The horses which came to the New World possessed distinct Spanish-style characteristics, which are still recognized in the American Indian breed of horse of today.
The native Americans were initially intimidated by these large animals. But by the 18th century the Plains Indians had incorporated them into their nomadic and hunting culture. The resulting horse was extremely hardy and adaptable. It is this horse from which the American Indian breed of horse is descended.
