Horse
Pronunciation:
Ost-tray-lee-an Stock
Breed Description:
The Australian Stock breed of horse is a hardy type that is mainly bred for endurance riding. But it is a versatile breed and is also used in a wide range of different disciplines, including polo, polo crosse, dressage, eventing, and show jumping, as well as camp drafting, Pony Club activities, and basic pleasure hacking. Even more importantly, it is a horse that is commonly used for stock work on cattle stations throughout Australia.
The Australian Stock Horse is bred for its intelligence and tough stamina. They are generally sound, sure-footed animals that have a Thoroughbred look, usually with good conformation.
They are quite lean horses, well-muscled with a powerful hind quarter, and with slender, but strong legs and strong, hardy hooves. They can be any color.
The Australian Stock Horse Society aims to standardize the breed.
Temperament:
The Australian Stock breed of horse has a good, calm temperament. They are also known for their courage and responsiveness.
Height:
The Australian Stock breed of horse stands on average between 15 and 16.2hh, or 60 to 66 inches at the withers.
Weight:
The Australian Stock breed of horse has an average weight of between 800 and 1300 pounds.
Health Problems:
The Australian Stock breed of horse generally doesn't have health problems.
Living Conditions:
The Australian Stock breed of horse is a hardy type, with tough, strong hooves that can withstand rough terrain. They do not need to be stabled.
Exercise:
The Australian Stock breed of horse doesn’t have any special exercise needs, but if in work or competition should be worked on a daily basis to keep fit and healthy.
Life Expectancy:
The Australian Stock breed of horse will live for between 20 and 30 years.
Grooming:
The Australian Stock breed of horse does not require any special treatment, but daily grooming is advised.
Origin:
The Australian Stock breed of horse has evolved from the first horses taken to Australia in the 18th century. The very first horses came from the Cape in South Africa, and then others were imported from Europe and Asia, particularly Thoroughbreds and Arabians. These gave rise to the Waler (which owes its name to New South Wales) that was bred as a working horse that could be used on the vast sheep farms in Australia. However it is accepted that the Waler wasn't a breed, but rather a type of horse. Nevertheless, the Waler is seen as the most important ancestor of the current Australian Stock Horse. 