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List of North American horse breeds facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

This article is about the many amazing horse breeds that have grown up or become well-known in Canada and the United States. Horses have been a big part of North American history, helping people with work, travel, and even sports. Each breed has its own special qualities, from strong draft horses to speedy racehorses and gentle ponies. Let's explore some of these wonderful horses!

Amazing Horse Breeds of North America

American Curly Horse

The American Curly Horse is known for its unique curly coat, which can range from a slight wave to tight ringlets. This special coat is hypoallergenic, meaning it's less likely to cause allergies in people. These horses are also known for being calm and friendly, making them great companions.

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An American Curly Horse with its unique coat.

American Draft Horses

North America is home to several powerful draft horse breeds, bred for pulling heavy loads.

American Belgian Draft

The American Belgian Draft is a very strong and gentle horse. They are often used for farm work and pulling wagons. They are known for their calm nature and impressive size.

Belgian draft horse2 (cropped)
A powerful American Belgian Draft horse.

American Cream Draft

The American Cream Draft is the only draft horse breed that started in the United States. They are famous for their beautiful cream-colored coat, pink skin, and amber eyes. They are strong, patient, and easy to train.

ACD Horses in Parade (cropped)
An American Cream Draft horse.

American Indian Horse

The American Indian Horse is a type of horse that has been important to Native American tribes for centuries. These horses are known for their toughness, intelligence, and ability to adapt to different environments. They often have unique coat patterns.

New Moon Girl and "MOON DANCER" Daughter of Cassels Danzel and New Moon Girl born 04042009 (cropped)
An American Indian Horse.

American Miniature Horse

The American Miniature Horse is a tiny horse that looks just like a full-sized horse, but in a much smaller package! They are usually no taller than 38 inches (97 cm) at the shoulder. Despite their small size, they are strong and can be trained for many activities, including showing and even as service animals.

Charming
A small American Miniature Horse.

American Paint Horse

The American Paint Horse is famous for its colorful coat patterns, which are a mix of white and any other horse color. Each Paint Horse has a unique pattern, making them very eye-catching. They are also known for being athletic and versatile, good for riding, ranch work, and competitions.

Paint horse in motion by Bonnie Gruenberg
An American Paint Horse with its unique coat pattern.

American Quarter Horse

The American Quarter Horse is one of the most popular horse breeds in the world. They are known for their incredible speed over short distances, especially a quarter mile, which is how they got their name. They are also very good at working with cattle and are popular in rodeos and Western riding.

Red roan Quarter Horse
A speedy American Quarter Horse.

American Saddlebred

The American Saddlebred is a graceful and elegant horse known for its high-stepping gaits. They are often called the "peacock of the horse world" because of their flashy appearance and proud way of moving. They are popular show horses.

Images from the 2009 Shelbyville Horse show (3802833280)
An American Saddlebred in a show.

American Shetland Pony

The American Shetland Pony is a small, sturdy pony breed. They are known for being strong for their size and can be used for riding, driving carts, and showing. They are often friendly and good with children.

Harness pony
An American Shetland Pony pulling a cart.

American Sorraia Mustang

The American Sorraia Mustang is a type of horse that has roots in the Iberian Peninsula (Spain and Portugal). They are part of the Colonial Spanish horse group and are known for their wild, natural look and hardy nature.

Sorraia Stallion and Family Band at Ravenseyrie
An American Sorraia Mustang.

American Thoroughbred

The American Thoroughbred is a breed primarily known for its speed and athleticism on the racetrack. While the breed started in Britain, many famous racehorses and bloodlines have developed in America. They are known for their lean bodies and powerful stride.

Seattle Slew (cropped)
Seattle Slew, a famous American Thoroughbred racehorse.

American Warmblood

The American Warmblood is a type of horse bred for sports like dressage, show jumping, and eventing. They are a mix of different breeds, chosen for their athletic ability, good temperament, and strong build.

AWB filly being shown in hand (cropped)
An American Warmblood filly.

Appaloosa

The Appaloosa is famous for its unique spotted coat patterns, which can be seen in many different forms. These horses were originally bred by the Nez Perce people and are known for their endurance, intelligence, and calm nature.

Appaloosa46-2
An Appaloosa with a spotted coat.

Spanish Barb

The Spanish Barb is a horse breed that comes from the horses brought to the Americas by Spanish explorers. They are known for being tough, smart, and versatile. They are often used for ranch work and endurance riding.

Spanish Barb Stallion
A Spanish Barb stallion.

Spanish Norman

The Spanish Norman is a newer breed created by crossing the Spanish Andalusian with the French Percheron. This mix creates a horse that is both elegant and powerful, suitable for riding and driving.

Spanish Norman1
A Spanish Norman horse.

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List of North American horse breeds Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.