The Rocky Mountain Horse comes from eastern Kentucky early in the 20th century and shares bloodlines with American Saddlebreds<\/a> and Tennessee Walking Horses<\/a>. The foundation stud for the breed was named Old Tobe and he sired a number of offspring that possessed his unique characteristics. Their smooth gait made them a favorite for farmers and in the rugged areas of (interestingly enough) the Appalachian Mountains. All Rocky Mountain Horses of today carry his bloodlines. <\/p>\n Well liked for their extreme versatility, hardiness and ability to withstand wintering outside. Initially the breed was bred in small pockets of the Kentucky countryside and while their popularity grew, they were not often crossed with other animals. The Rocky Mountain traits were valuable to the area and locals felt strongly about preserving them. <\/p>\n While the breed remained relatively pure, this type of unorganized breeding could have meant the end of the breed. Luckily in 1986 the Rocky Mountain Horse Association was formed to preserve the breed and attempt to organize breeding. <\/p>\n Average height 14 – 16 hands<\/p>\n Head has straight profile Preferred color is chocolate (silver dapple<\/a>) with a white mane and tail but all solid colors<\/a> are accepted. Animals with white markings above the knee\/hock or excessive face markings are not accepted. <\/p>\n Gentle and kind<\/p>\n Riding horse * all links open in a new window<\/small>
\n<\/p>\nOrigins<\/h3>\n
Features<\/h3>\n
Physique<\/h3>\n
\nEyes are bold
\nEars are well shaped
\nNeck is arched and set at a angle
\nChest is wide
\nShoulder is well sloped (ideally at 45 degrees)
\nLegs are clean
\nHooves are well proportioned<\/p>\nTraditional Colors<\/h3>\n
Temperament<\/h3>\n
Use<\/h3>\n
\nFarm horse
\nLight agriculture
\nTransportation<\/p>\nHelpful Links<\/h3>\n
\nRocky Mountain Horse Association<\/a><\/p>\nWhere to Buy<\/h3>\n