Spotlight on the American Quarter Horse

Did you know that American Quarter Horses are the most prevalent horse breed in the United States? Since 1940, the AQHA has registered approximately six million horses. And these are just the purebreds. The Quarter Horse has long been a favorite among cowboys and rodeo riders, but it is also an excellent show and pleasure horse. This story features a Holly Springs, MS horse vet who examines the breed.

What Is the History of Quarter Horses?

The Quarter Horse has a long history, dating back to 710 AD, when the Spanish Barb, a Quarter Horse ancestor, was developed. This occurred during the Moorish invasion of Spain. In the 1500s, Spanish explorers introduced Spanish Barbs to the New World. Native Americans got several of these horses. This resulted in the formation of the Chickasaw breed. By the 1600s, American settlers had crossed English horses with the descendants of the Spanish Barbs. The new Quarter Horse breed gained its moniker after gaining popularity in local races. These races were held in tiny villages along main streets that were typically a quarter of a mile long.

What Is an American Quarter Horse Good For?

A more appropriate inquiry could be, ‘What is the American Quarter Horse not good for?’ The AQHA is a tough, adaptable, and trainable horse that is an excellent choice for equestrians of all levels. The list of possible applications is quite vast. In reality, the Quarter Horse may be found almost wherever in the horse world.

Here are some of their talents:

• Gymkhana
• Racing Trail Riding
• Barrel Racing 
• Dressage
• Jumping 
• Pleasure Riding
• Rodeo 
• Ranching
• Calf Roping
• Team Roping
• Reining
• Cutting
• Driving
• Working Cow Horse

Of course, they make excellent pets and pasture pals!

What Color is the American Quarter Horse?

The American Quarter Horse can come in a range of hues. The AQHA officially lists the following seventeen:

• Chestnut
• Sorrel
• Black
• Brown
• Gray
• Bay
• Palomino
• Buckskin
• Cremello
• Perlino
• White Dun
• Red Dun
• Grullo
• Red Roan 
• Bay Roan 
• Blue Roan

How Much Is an American Quarter Horse?

It will ultimately depend on what you’re looking for Silver to do. If you want a pet, a pasture pal, or a simple pleasure horse, you may spend $5000 to $10000. A foal, a rescue, or an older horse may be less expensive. Of course, if you want to show or breed your horse, you’ll want one with a strong pedigree and/or a winning record. That will result in a considerable price increase. 

To put things in perspective, the most expensive Quarter Horse colt ever sold was Mr. Pacmann, who sold for a cool $1 million in 2023.

What Health Concerns Are Quarter Horses Prone To?

While the American Quarter Horse is generally strong, it is not immune to illness and disease. The AQHA has a specialized test that detects the most common genetic illnesses to which they may be susceptible. These include glycogen branching enzyme deficiency (GBED), hereditary equine regional dermal asthenia (HERDA), hyperkalemic periodic paralysis (HYPP), malignant hyperthermia (MH), and polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM).

Aside from that, the Quarter Horse is predisposed to obesity. Proper feeding and weight control are critical to keeping your horse healthy. Other typical difficulties include navicular syndrome and hoof troubles.

For additional information, contact your horse veterinarian in Holly Springs, MS.

Caring for a Quarter Horse

Quarter Horses, like any other breed, require clean stalls, regular turnout, a healthy diet, and regular veterinarian care. You’ll also need to keep up with preventative measures like dewormers and ferrier visits. Dental checkups are also necessary.

Even if you are an experienced horseman, it is recommended that you consult with your  equestrian vet frequently, particularly regarding your horse’s food and exercise requirements. There is always more to learn!

Make An Appointment With Our Holly Springs, MS Equine Veterinarian.

Are you looking for an excellent equestrian veterinarian in the Des Moines, Iowa area? Please do not hesitate to contact us for any of your horse’s veterinarian care needs. We’re here to help!