List of horse breeds facts for kids

Light or saddle horse breeds

Heavy or draft horse breeds

Horses and ponies come in many different types, called breeds. A breed is like a special family of horses that all share similar looks, sizes, and personalities. These traits are passed down from parents to their foals.

When we talk about a horse breed, it usually means that its family tree (called a pedigree) is written down in a special book, like a club record. This helps people know which horses belong to which breed. Sometimes, a horse might be called a "purebred" if its family line is very clear and recorded.

You might also hear about "color breeds." These are groups of horses that are recognized mainly because of their coat color, not always because they have other unique features or a long family history.

Horse Breeds: Big and Strong

Sometimes it's hard to tell if a horse is a "horse" or a "pony." Generally, if a horse grows taller than about 145 centimeters (or 14.2 hands) when it's fully grown, it's called a horse. But the main group that records the breed decides if it's a horse or a pony.

Horse Breeds A–C

Horse Breeds D–K

Horse Breeds L–R

Horse Breeds S–Z

Pony Breeds: Small and Mighty

A "pony" is usually a horse that is smaller than 145 cm (14.2 hands) when fully grown. However, just like with horses, the main breed group decides if it's called a pony, even if some individuals are a bit taller.

Pony Breeds A–K

Pony Breeds L–Z

Color Breeds: All About the Coat

Some horse groups are called "color breeds" because they are mainly known for their special coat color. Horses of almost any breed can be part of these groups if they have the right color.

For example, a Palomino horse is known for its golden coat and white mane and tail. A Pinto has large patches of white and another color. These colors don't always pass down perfectly to their foals.

However, some breeds, like the Friesian horse (always black) or the Appaloosa (spotted), are true breeds. They have a specific look and history, and their color is just one part of their breed standard.

Here are some well-known color breed groups:

• Buckskin: A light brown or tan color with black points (mane, tail, legs).
• Palomino: A golden coat with a white or flaxen mane and tail.
• Pinto: Horses with large patches of white and another color.
• White: Horses that are mostly white. (True albino horses don't exist.)

Mixed Breeds and Special Groups

Sometimes, horses are a mix of different breeds. These are called "crossbred" horses. There are also special groups that record these mixed horses, especially if they are bred for a certain sport or purpose.

Horse Types: By Look or Use

A "type" of horse is a way to group horses that look similar or are used for similar jobs. It's not a specific breed with a recorded family tree. For example, a "draft horse" type includes many different heavy, strong breeds used for pulling.

Modern Horse Types

Extinct Breeds: Horses of the Past

Many horse breeds have disappeared over time. This can happen if they are no longer bred, or if they are mixed into other breeds.

Extinct Breeds List

See also

In Spanish: Anexo:Razas de caballos para niños

• List of horse breeds in DAD-IS
• Horse breeding