Rocky Mountain Horse - Used for competitions

Many Animal Friends Equine Insurance customers may not know the origins and the history of the Rocky Mountain Horse, since it has not been officially documented, but rather has been passed down generations via storytelling. It is said that this utility horse originated in the late 1800's in Eastern Kentucky at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. This horse breed was a secret to most except the people who live in this region.

The story that is told about the origins of this breed started with a gaited colt that was supposedly brought from the Rocky Mountain region to Kentucky in the 1890's. The colt was referred to as "the Rocky Mountain Horse" because of where he had come from.

This horse was the beginning of the breed and was said to be chocolate in colour with a flaxen tail and mane. The story that was told about this horse says he had a superior gait. He was bred with the local Appalachian Saddle mares to carry on the breed. A prominent breeder of the Rocky Mountain Horse for over most of the 20th century was a man named Sam Tuttle. He is said to be the man that is responsible for keeping the breed alive.

Some of the established characteristics for the breed include a wide chest and of medium height. They have well shaped ears and bold eyes. The gait has to be a natural four beat gait that they have from birth. This breed has solid colour bodies and may have markings on the face; however, there cannot be any white above the knee.

The Rocky Mountain Horse breed is being used more and more in competitions because of its unique gait. This horse is sure footed and has natural endurance. They are a great riding companion because of their calm and friendly temperament.

What is your favourite horse or pony breed? Are you a breeder? Do you have any advice for our Animal Friends Equine customers when choosing a breed of horse or pony? We would love to hear from you. Please post your comments below - thank you!

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