Horse
Breed Description:
The Arabian horse is perhaps one of the most widely recognized breeds of horse in the world. Having shared thousands of years of history with humans, Arabians today have very distinguished features. Known for refined and beautiful bone structures, the Arabian possesses great density and strength in its bones. Usually bay, black, chestnut, grey, or roan in color, the Arabian has large eyes and nostrils, but a small muzzle. This creates an inquisitive and keen profile. Arabian horses have arched necks and carry their tails high. They have sound feet that are capable of carrying heavy riders for long distances on their short but broad backs. Arabians are world-famous for their endurance abilities, and are the most commonly used horse breed in endurance racing.
Temperament:
Arabians have lived closely with humans for millennia. They tend to form strong familial bonds, and are great horses for children to train and ride. In fact, Arabian horses are one of the few breeds that are permitted to exhibit stallions in equestrian events. This is due to their docile and easily trainable nature. While Arabians may be intelligent and willing workers, they can also pose behavior related problems for owners that are not adept and firm in their commands and instructions. Arabians easily learn to manipulate objects, locks, doors, and people. Therefore, careful and responsible training is essential.
Height:
14.1 hh to 15.1 hh
Health Problems:
The Arabian breed of horse is a very hardy animal and exhibits few congenital health issues. Bred to withstand extreme climates and poor or little nutrition, adults are usually quite healthy for the duration of their lives. However, there are a number of illnesses that effect Arabian foals. Some foals are born with Cerebellar Abiotrophy, which causes poor balance, shakes, and tremors. Typically this condition requires euthanasia. Arabian foals can also be born without immune systems, known as SCID, and Lavender Foal Syndrome. Other conditions that may affect Arabian horses are epilepsy, and rare joint and bone disorders. In most cases, genetic markers can be found in that can detect these conditions in the parents, before the animals are bred. Responsible breeding usually eliminates these illnesses in most Arabians.
Origin:
The Arabian horse breed is one of the oldest domesticated horse breeds. Historical evidence suggests that Arabians have been living and working alongside humans for nearly 5,000 years. Originally descending from wild horses of the Arabian Peninsula, Arabians were domesticated by Bedouin peoples in what is now the country of Yemen, among other nearby Arab countries. The breed was found extensively throughout the world by the time of the birth of Christ, and serious and dedicated refinement of the breed began to occur in the 6th and 7th centuries. War often drove the development of the breed, resulting in the breed standards accepted today. Modern Arabians are known by the country they are from, such as the Russian Arabian and the Polish Arabian. 