Breeds of horse found in the United States, a large North American nation. There are over 80 breeds of horse native to the US, all of them ancestors of the tough animals imported during colonization.
An Appendix Quarter (or American Appendix Horse) is a first generation cross between a registered Thoroughbred and an American Quarter Horse. They are registered as appendix, but not initially eligible for a full AQHA registration. Read more →
The Appaloosa Sport Horse was created in the USA with the intention of creating a European style sport horse with the bold appaloosa coloring. Read more →
Known for their flamboyant spotted patterns, the Appaloosa is a color breed. This means that they are classified based on color genetics, rather than conformation features. There are six different coat patterns found in the appy family, each one rather distinctive. Read more →
A variety of different bloodlines may be registered as American Warmblood horses. Like the warmbloods of other countries, they are required to be of sport horse or warmblood type and meet specific studbook requirements. Read more →
The American Walking Pony is a relatively new pony breed, developed for use as a show pony in gaited show competitions. They are capable of multiple gaits, walk, pleasure walk, merry walk, trot, canter, slow gait and the rack. Read more →
The first Thoroughbred horse imported to the American colonies was Bulle Rock in 1730. From that point the colonies began a grand love affair with horse racing and its robust athletes. Read more →
This is a breed that actually earns its name, trotters and pacers are required to meet speed requirements prior to registration with their respective breed associations. Also called American Trotters, the Standardbred name comes from the qualifying standard time these animals must pass to register (a mile in under 3 minutes). Read more →
The main objective for breeders of the American Spotted Paso horse is combining the smooth gaits of the Peruvian Paso with the colorful coat patterns of the pinto. Read more →
Sport ponies have been enjoyed for hundreds of years in Europe and it was inevitable that their stock would gradually make its way to North America. Read more →
This is the smallest of the donkey breeds and they are known for their incredible strength and willing attitude.
Origins
The American Miniature Mediterranean Donkeys originated in southern Europe on the small islands of Sardinia and Sicily. In the 18th century they were primarily used indoors for grinding grain and as pack animals for mountain shepherds. The breed was introduced to the US in 1929 when the first imports were received by Robert Green on his stud farm in New Jersey.
“Miniature Donkeys possess the affectionate nature of a Newfoundland, the resignation of a cow, the durability of a mule, the courage of a tiger, and the intellectual capability only slightly inferior to man’s.” – Robert Green
Today these tiny animals are almost extinct in their native lands, luckily they have become popular pets in the states, where their numbers continue to grow.