Arabian Horse Breed: All you need to know
If you own a horse, it likely has Arabian bloodlines. With a history spanning over 4,000 years in the Middle East, the Arabian is one of the oldest horse breeds around.
The Arabian is a beautiful athletic breed, known for its striking appearance and impressive athletic ability.
Their refined heads, arched necks, and striking, expressive eyes make them truly stand out!
Want to learn more about this breed or thinking about owning one? Here’s all the info you need origins, temperament, diet, and more.
What Is An Arabian Horse?
The Arabian horse is one of the world’s oldest horse breeds, roaming the Middle Eastern sands for over 4,000 years. Their beauty, intelligence, and friendly nature have influenced nearly every modern horse breed. You can spot an Arabian by its refined, dished face, large eyes, naturally high tail carriage, high-set and curved tail, and sleek, muscular build.
Interesting Facts About Arabian Horses
Here are some fun facts about Arabian horses before we dive into their nature.
Arabian horses are one of the world’s oldest pure breeds.
They were bred by Bedouins for war and were seen as gifts from Allah.
Bedouin tribes zealously maintained the purity and breeding practices of the Arabian horse.
Bedouins favored the Arabian mare for battles, valuing her agility, cooperation with humans, and adaptability to desert conditions.
These tribes used to take their horses inside their tents to sleep with them.
The majority of Arabians have black skin underneath their coats.
Their “dished” face aids in breathing efficiency.
Arabians have unique, melodious whinnies.
Historic figures like George Washington and Alexander the Great rode Arabian horses.
The US Arabian Horse Association (AHA) has registered over one million Arabian, Half-Arabian, and Anglo-Arabian horses since 1908.
History Of The Arabian Horse In The Arabian Peninsula
The Arabian horse history dates back to 4000 B.C., in the deserts of the Arabian Peninsula. It was the Bedouins’ loyal companion, believed to be a gift from Allah. The Arabians’ Bedouin heritage reflects their nomadic origins and deep cultural significance, shaping their unique bond with humans and remarkable endurance.
The Bedouin tribes kept the breed pure, not mixing them with other horses, which made them known as “Asil” or purebred. Intensive breeding in a favorable environment helped preserve the breed’s purity and superior traits. The desert’s harsh conditions made them strong, with great stamina and the ability to survive with very little food or water. Harsh desert conditions evolved the Arabian’s endurance and physical traits. Because of their naturally preserved genetic pool, Arabians served as foundation stock for many other breeds. To breed Arabians means to maintain a specific, ancient horse breed with global influence.
When Arab armies spread out in the 7th century, they took their Arabians with them, introducing the breed to North Africa, Europe, and Asia. The modern Arabian horse retains its intelligence, endurance, and distinctive features, continuing to influence equestrian disciplines worldwide.
Here are some examples of the Arabian breed bloodline:
The English Thoroughbred
The Russian Orloff Trotter
The French Percheron
The American Morgan horse
The Arabian horse contributed largely to the development of these breeds. Its influence extends to modern breeds, shaping their characteristics and abilities. The Arabian is the oldest of all the light breeds, serving as the foundation for many others.
Today, modern Arabian horses excel in endurance races and are great for pleasure riding. Groups like the Arabian Horse Association, US Arabian Horse Registry (USAHR), and Arab Horse Society (AHS) help keep this ancient breed pure and alive.
Breed Association and Registration
The Arabian Horse Association (AHA) stands as the leading authority for Arabian horses in the United States, dedicated to preserving the legacy of this remarkable breed that originated on the Arabian Peninsula. As the official breed association, the AHA manages the Arabian horse registry, ensuring that every purebred Arabian horse meets strict breed standards and has a verified pedigree. This registry is the cornerstone for maintaining the integrity and purity of the Arabian breed, giving both breeders and horse owners confidence in their horses’ lineage.
Registering a purebred Arabian horse with the AHA involves submitting an application, providing detailed documentation of the horse’s ancestry, and paying the necessary fees. Only horses that meet the breed’s high standards such as the signature high tail carriage and refined head are recognized as purebred Arabians. For those with a passion for breeding, the AHA also offers registration for half-Arabians, which are the offspring of a purebred Arabian horse and another breed. This ensures that even horses with mixed heritage can be celebrated for their Arabian blood and unique qualities.
The AHA doesn’t work alone; it collaborates with other breed associations and registries, like the Arabian Horse Registry of America, to promote the Arabian breed and provide valuable resources for horse enthusiasts. With over 300,000 registered Arabian horses in the United States, the AHA plays a vital role in supporting the vibrant community of Arabian horse owners, breeders, and fans.
Whether you’re interested in breeding, showing, or simply enjoying the companionship of a purebred Arabian, the AHA offers guidance on everything from horse breeding practices to preparing for western pleasure competition. Their resources help ensure that the Arabian breed continues to thrive, both in the show ring and as a beloved all-around family horse. For anyone passionate about Arabian horses, the Arabian Horse Association is an essential partner in celebrating and preserving this beautiful, versatile breed.
Arabian Horse Characteristics
The Arabian is a versatile horse, renowned for its adaptability and suitability for a wide range of equestrian activities.
Let’s have a look at the characteristics of an Arabian horse its features, temperament, diet, running speed, health problems, and average lifespan.
Arabian horse features
Around 14.1 to 15.1 tall
Wedge-shaped head
Broad forehead
Large eyes
Large nostrils
Small muzzle
High-set, arched neck
High, flowing tail
Strong bones and hardy hooves
Coat colors include bay, grey, chestnut, black, and sometimes roan.
The Arabian is a prime example of the light breeds, recognized for their refined build and exceptional stamina.
Arabian horse temperament
Quick learners and pick up commands faster than other breeds.
Form strong bonds with their owners.
Highly attuned to their rider’s cues and environment.
Spirited horses, yet well-mannered.
Love exploring their surroundings.
Thrive in activities that challenge both body and mind, like endurance racing.
Because of their intelligence and adaptability, the Arabian breed suits a wide variety of equestrian disciplines, including racing, trail riding, and show competitions.
Arabian horse running speed
The average speed is around 34.2 mph.
The fastest recorded speed is about 40.4 mph in a gallop.
In endurance competitions, Arabian horses run at a speed of around 11.8-14.9 mph. Arabians excel in endurance rides due to their remarkable stamina.
How far can an Arabian horse run? Well, the longest recorded run is 100 miles during an endurance race. Arabians race distances similar to those of Thoroughbreds, making them suitable for a wide range of racing events. The Arabian is considered a premier endurance horse, renowned for its resilience and success in long-distance competitions.
Arabian horse diet
Arabian horses have small stomachs and need to eat small, frequent meals throughout the day aim for at least 2-3 meals.
What do Arabian horses eat? Let’s take a look:
Forage (hay and grass): About 1.5%-2% of their body weight daily.
Grains (oats, barley): Feed in moderation based on their workload to avoid digestive issues.
: Include vitamins, minerals, and fats like flaxseed or vegetable oil.
Water: Between 5-10 gallons of water daily, more during exercise or hot weather,
: Carrots, or special horse treats can be given in moderation, but don’t replace their regular meals.
Arabian horse health problems including lavender foal syndrome
Arabian horses can be prone to specific health issues, but regular veterinary care helps manage these risks.
Here’s what to watch for:
Genetic disorders like SCID (Severe combined immunodeficiency), CA (Cerebellar abiotrophy), and Lavender Foal Syndrome (LFS), a fatal genetic disorder affecting Arabian foals
Metabolic issues such as Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) and Laminitis
Respiratory conditions like Heaves (Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
Skin conditions such as Sweet itch
Eye issues like Corneal Ulcers
Arabian horse life expectancy
The lifespan of an Arabian horse is between 25 and 30 years, with some reaching their early 30s if they are well taken care of.
To help reach their maximum lifespan, make sure to provide:
High-quality nutrition
Regular veterinary care
Appropriate exercise to stay fit and avoid obesity
A clean, comfortable environment with ample shelter and space
Different Types Of Purebred Arabian Horse Breeds
Egyptian Arabian: The purest bloodline.
Russian Arabian: Bred in the Soviet Union, have a more robust build.
Polish Arabian: Have a more refined, elegant body.
Crabbet Arabian: From England’s Crabbet Park estate and bred by Lady Anne Blunt; athletic with a strong bone structure.
Spanish Arabian: Feature a powerful, well-muscled body with a substantial bone structure.
Shagya Arabian: From Hungary; larger with a strong, athletic build.
These are examples of horses bred for specific traits and purposes, such as endurance, show, or versatility. Specialized breeding farms around the world, especially in the U.S., play a crucial role in maintaining the quality and purity of these Arabian types. Compared to other modern light breeds, which have often been developed through more recent selective breeding for diverse sports and activities, Arabian horses stand out for their historical origins and foundational influence on many bloodlines.
Where Do Arabian Horses Live Today?
Arabian horses are now found all around the world, including:
Arabian Peninsula, in Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait
North America, such as in the United States and Canada
Europe, especially in the UK, France, and Germany
Australia
Parts of Asia, Africa, and South America
The breed’s unique qualities and versatility have led to more Arabian horses being bred and owned worldwide.
Is An Arabian Horse Ideal For You?
An Arabian horse is ideal if you:
Are interested in endurance events or long-distance riding.
Are keen on horse shows or specific disciplines like barrel racing.
Have space, quality forage, and good shelter.
Are ready to commit to regular exercise, social interaction, and mental stimulation.
Are looking for a responsive horse that forms strong bonds.
Want a perfect family horse, as Arabians are affectionate, loyal, and great for recreational riding.
Appreciate that the Arabian is not just a pretty horse, but also excels in performance and versatility.
Value excellent Arabian horses known for their endurance, speed, intelligence, and suitability for various activities.
Are interested in a versatile Arabian that adapts well to both leisure and competitive pursuits.
Are prepared for their specific health needs, like regular care and vaccinations.
Are up for grooming and feeding needs, to ensure a fine coat and balanced diet.
Why is the Arabian horse so expensive?
Arabian horse cost is influenced by several factors, including age, training, bloodline, and show achievements, with prices typically ranging from $5,000 to over $100,000. Arabians are one of the most expensive breeds in the world, costing between $5,000 and $30,000+. A purebred Arabian horse or a highly trained Arabian stallion may even exceed $150,000.
But why are Arabian horses so special? Here are just a few reasons about this breed that make them cost so much:
Ancient heritage
Distinctive appearance
Versatility and performance in various disciplines
Selective breeding
Cultural significance and status symbol
Are Arabian horses hard to ride?
Arabian horses aren’t too hard to ride but can be tricky for beginners. Their high alertness means they pick up on every signal, so clear communication is key. If you’re a confident, skilled rider, they’re incredibly rewarding and fun to ride.
What is the difference between an Arabian horse and a regular one?
Arabian horses stand out with their distinctive features: a dished face, large eyes, and high tail carriage. In the equine world, the Arabian is highly regarded for its historical significance and versatility, making it one of the most admired breeds globally. Unlike “regular” horses, they have exceptional endurance and stamina, often shining in long-distance events and consistently win competitive trail and endurance competitions. Their intelligence, trainability, and adaptability – qualities that Arabian enable – allow them to excel as a competitive sport horse in multiple disciplines. Arabians compete in a wide range of equestrian activities, from endurance and show competitions to racing, and are often seen at open breed shows alike, performing alongside other breeds. The breed’s excellence is showcased in all Arabian events, such as endurance, show, and racing, and they are successful in both all Arabian events and open competitions. The Arabian positioned itself as a leader in endurance and show events, and is frequently crossed with Quarter Horses to enhance athletic traits for specific equestrian activities. Their intelligence and sensitivity make them more hot-blooded compared to other horses, yet they are also highly suitable for recreational riding, offering an enjoyable and low-stress experience for riders and families.
If you’re considering an Arabian as your next show or riding horse, you’re in for:
One of the oldest and most beautiful horse breeds in the world
Impressive speed
A unique appearance
Intelligence and stamina
Outstanding endurance
Use the info from this article to make a well-informed decision for your next Arabian horse purchase.
