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What Are the Three Main Types of Horses?

Leigh Mercer
Leigh Mercer

In general horses are divided into three main types, namely heavy horses, light horses, and ponies. These distinctions are made primarily on size and weight, though they sometimes take bone structure and overall stockiness into account, too. Most of the time specific breeds are classified as one of these types irrespective of whether all members actually fit the specifications. Typing is usually more of a generalized mode of classification and lacks a lot of the precision of something like breed distinctions. There are many different horse breeds, and what it takes to fall into a breed category is usually a lot more stringent, involving things like lineage and coloring. Types tend to focus on proportions, size, and build.

Distinguishing Breed and Type

Light horses are typically used for riding.
Light horses are typically used for riding.

Horses are usually distinguished primarily by their breed. There are hundreds of known breeds, and a number of what’s known as “archaic” breeds, too — archaic breeds either don’t exist anymore or have been folded into other more modern classifications. Bred distinctions are usually certified by official registering agencies, and typically have international consistency.

The three main types of horses are heavy, light and ponies.
The three main types of horses are heavy, light and ponies.

A horse’s breed tends to be most useful when it comes to the horse’s genetic makeup, and usually says more about its familial lineage and coloring characteristics than anything else. Typing, on the other hand, is more commonly used to make generalizations about a horse’s capabilities. Certain types are better at performing certain work than others, for instance, and also may be more likely to suffer from certain injuries or illnesses.

Heavy Horse Basics

Breeds of heavy horses include Clydesdale and American Cream Draft horses.
Breeds of heavy horses include Clydesdale and American Cream Draft horses.

The heavy horse looks just as the name implies — heavy. The body is strong with a broad back and rounded withers, which is the spot between the horse's shoulder blades. On a heavy horse, the legs are short and thick to aid them in pulling carts or plowing fields. Heavy horses are specifically made for heavy labor like farming. These types of horses also move with short steps and choppy movements to give them ultimate traction. Heavy horses can also be shown at fairs and horse shows. Some different breeds of heavy horses include the Clydesdale and the American Cream Draft horse.

Light Horses

Light horses are usually used for riding purposes. They are distinguished by more linear, angular bodies and typically longer legs; saddles can easily be fitted over the horse’s back, allowing for a comfortable ride. Light horses have longer torsos than draft horses, and hardly bend their knees at all when they move. They are often considered to be somewhat dainty or dignified.

In most cases these horses have both true and false ribs, which aid in saddle placement, among other things. The true ribs are usually thought to be the first eight ribs of the horse's ribcage, which are flat so that the saddles lie just behind the trapezius muscle. The last ten so-called “false” ribs are rounded rather than flat. Some different breeds of light horses are quarter horses, thoroughbreds and miniature horses, which are not to be confused with the third type of horse, ponies.

Ponies

Ponies are the last of the three main types of horses. They are naturally small in stature and as such are often confused with miniature horses, which normally fall under the “heavy” distinction based on their stocky build, or baby horses, with are called foals. Ponies are unique in many important ways. They have naturally thicker manes, tails, and coats, for instance; they also have smaller heads and thicker necks than any other type of horse. They often appear somewhat shrunken even when grown to full size, and are popular options for child riders.

Ponies tend to be intelligent, friendly creatures with stubborn habits. Adults can usually ride ponies, although if a pony is trained by a beginner or a child it may exhibit spoiled behavior. One breed of pony that many people may recognize is the Shetland pony.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the three main types of horses?

The three main types of horses are draft horses, light horses, and ponies. Draft horses, such as the Belgian or Clydesdale, are large and muscular, bred for heavy work like plowing and hauling. Light horses, including breeds like Arabians and Thoroughbreds, are bred for speed, agility, and endurance. Ponies, like Shetland or Welsh ponies, are smaller in stature and often strong for their size.

How do draft horses differ from light horses in terms of physical characteristics?

Draft horses are significantly larger and more robust than light horses, with a more muscular build, broader backs, and heavier bone structure. They typically have calm temperaments and are bred for strength to perform heavy labor. Light horses are more refined, with a sleeker build, and are bred for speed, agility, and endurance in activities like racing or jumping.

Can ponies be used for riding or are they just for children?

Ponies are not just for children; they are versatile and can be ridden by adults as well. They are often used for driving, therapeutic riding programs, and for various equestrian sports. Despite their smaller size, ponies are known for their strength, intelligence, and endurance, making them suitable for a range of activities beyond just being a child's mount.

What are some popular breeds of light horses and what are they known for?

Popular breeds of light horses include the Arabian, known for its endurance and distinctive head shape; the Thoroughbred, celebrated for its speed and racing prowess; and the Quarter Horse, which is renowned for its versatility and performance in rodeo events. Each breed has unique characteristics that suit different equestrian disciplines.

Are there any specific uses for draft horses in modern times?

In modern times, draft horses are still used for farming, particularly in sustainable agriculture and by Amish communities. They also participate in competitive pulling events and are popular for recreational riding due to their gentle nature. Additionally, they play a role in forestry management, where their ability to navigate rough terrain with minimal environmental impact is valued.

What factors should be considered when choosing between a horse and a pony for riding?

When choosing between a horse and a pony for riding, consider the rider's size, experience level, and what they aim to achieve. Ponies are well-suited for children, beginners, or smaller adults, as they are generally easier to manage. Horses are better for larger adults or those interested in competitive riding disciplines that require the animal's greater speed and height.

Discussion Comments

Lostnfound

My cousin used to have a chestnut quarter horse. I'm assuming that's what she was. She wasn't a Thoroughbred -- just a very nice saddlebred horse. Her name was Princess and I don't think anything could scare that horse. Nothing bothered her. She is one of the calmest horses I've ever met -- a real sweetheart.

I like horses, although I've never learned to ride. They're beautiful, intelligent animals.

Grivusangel

We took a wagon ride as part of a tour of a historical home, and the horses pulling the wagon were percherons. They were mares, and not quite as large as most percherons. They were very, very sweet horses and very pleased to be around people.

Draft horses are huge, but there's something very noble and kind about them. I'm told that, by and large, they are indeed, "gentle giants."

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    • Light horses are typically used for riding.
      By: Eric Isselée
      Light horses are typically used for riding.
    • The three main types of horses are heavy, light and ponies.
      By: CofkoCof
      The three main types of horses are heavy, light and ponies.
    • Breeds of heavy horses include Clydesdale and American Cream Draft horses.
      By: dozornaya
      Breeds of heavy horses include Clydesdale and American Cream Draft horses.