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    Home » Horse Breed Information

    4 Best Horse Breeds for Beginners

    Modified: Jul 17, 2020 by Dani Buckley · This post may contain affiliate links · 3 Comments

    Horses are a great addition to your life and family. They help with exercise, building self-confidence and even stress relief. If you're looking to get into the equine world but you're not sure where to begin or what breed of horse to buy, we've compiled a list of the four best horse breeds for beginners. 

    American Quarter Horse

    American Quarter Horse buckskin Stallion running

    The Quarter Horse is a great choice for a beginner. They are versatile and can be used in just about every discipline. They are also calm and hard working. Quarter Horses are even-tempered and don’t stand too tall (about 15hh), which is important when building confidence, especially if you are afraid of heights. Quarter Horses are flashy and come in just about any color you can think of too, making them a great horse breed for beginners!

    Brown American Quarter Horse

    For more information on this unique breed, check out our article 8 Things You DIdn't Know About The Quarter Horse. 

    Tennessee Walking Horse

    Tennessee_Walking_Horse2Tennessee Walking Horses are warm-blooded but kind. They are smooth when it comes to being gaited, so beginners will feel more comfortable in the saddle. This breed is also understanding and willing to do what is asked of them. Tennessee Walkers are flashy and can be used in many different areas of the equestrian world, making them one of the best horse breeds for beginners.

    For more information on this fascinating breed, check out our article 6 Things You Didn't Know About The Tennessee Walking Horse. 

    American Paint Horse

    Lovely paint horse with western bridle

    Looking for some color and good temperament? The American Paint Horse is another great candidate for a beginner. These horses are docile and loyal to their owners. In fact, it’s for this reason that they were used by Native Americans, as they are smart and able to learn quickly. Paint horses can be used in many different ways. If you’re looking to make a strong bond with a horse, buying a Paint is the way to go.

    An American Paint horse in the pasture.

    We can't stop looking at these beautiful paint horses! Check out our article 15 Breathtaking Images Of Paint Horses for more cool pictures of this incredible breed!

    Appaloosa

    horse

    Charming and flashy, Appaloosa horses are another great choice for a beginner. These horses are docile and willing. They are also loyal and able to bond with their owners. Appaloosas can be used in just about any direction, and who can resist the spots? Appaloosas are a fantastic horse breed for beginners.

    An Appaloosa Horse eating in wild pastures in French Alps.

    Check out our article 8 Things You Didn't Know About The Appaloosa for more information on this remarkable breed! 

    More advice for beginners

    Interested in pursuing a horseback riding hobby or purchasing your own horse? It's always a good idea to start with lessons, so you don't make any critical mistakes that can easily be avoided. 

    Take lessons

    Before diving into the commitment of owning a horse, it is always a good idea to take riding lessons first. A good riding instructor can teach you all the basics starting at the ground up including hoof care, anatomy, proper grooming techniques, how to saddle and proper posture and leg pressure. Once you have been hooked and addicted to everything horses, it’s time to buy a horse of your own.

    A woman rides on a painted horse through Zion Canyon in Zion National Park, Utah.

    Buying your first horse

    When buying your first horse, it’s best to think about your goals and what you want to do with your horse. Stay away from hot-blooded horses like Arabians and Thoroughbreds as they are high spirited and fiery. A green horse may also not be the best choice for your first horse either. Remember the priority is to have a horse that helps you gain experience while boosting your confidence, such as the previously mentioned horse breeds that are great with beginners.

    beautiful brown and white colored paint horse

    Buying a horse is so exciting. We have all these dreams of what we want to do with them as soon as they step off the trailer. Having horses is the best part of our lives. As a right-out beginner, remember, master the trot before a gallop. Did we miss any other great horse breeds for beginners? Let us know in the comments below.

    Horse Courses by Elaine Heney

    • Listening to the Horse - The Documentary by Elaine Heney & Grey Pony Films
    • Shoulder In & Out Training for better balance, bend & topline development with your horse
    • Over 110+ Polework Exercises & Challenges to Download
    • Dancing at Liberty & Creating Connection with Your Horse (11 lessons) - Grey Pony Films
     

    Sources: [1]

     

    More Horse Breed Information

    • The Strongest Horse Breeds in The World
    • Five Horse Breeds Known For Their Graceful Gait
    • Equine 411: All About The Paso Fino
    • Equine 411: All About the Falabella Horse Breed

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    Comments

    1. Mary Sweet

      March 22, 2020 at 4:34 pm

      You gave so much information , thank you I just wanted to read your info. as for me I'm 73 and to old to ride any more with my health problems. Just want to say Thank you again. Yours truly Mrs Mary Sweet from Nothwest AR

      Reply
    2. Ashley

      April 10, 2021 at 11:03 am

      Best breed if you want a draft horse to ride

      Reply
    3. Lexie Morris

      June 10, 2022 at 10:32 am

      i love horses and my horse is called candy

      Reply

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