Jan. 9, 2008 - Spotted Saddle Horses ~ Breed Information
Breed Influences
The Spotted Saddle Horse can trace its roots back to Icelandic Ponies that escaped from Viking ships that crashed on our shorelines. These equines were usually naturally gaited.
These gaited horses were selectively bred and result was a beautiful, smooth-gaited horse that came to be known as the Spotted Saddle Horse. Mustangs, Standardbreds, Paso Finos, Missouri Fox Trotters, Peruvian Pasos, the Racking Horse, and the Tennessee Walking Horse were all used in developing the breed, the TW being a more recent influence.
Breed Characteristics
The SSH closely resembles a heavier Tennesee Walker. Spotted Saddle Horses are known for their great temperament, and their gorgeous colors. The have a four-beat gait that is very comfortable to ride. They are described as being sure-footed, trustworthy horses that are great for families.
Breed Standards
Spotted Saddle Horses are required to have a white spot above the hocks, not including the face. The darker color of their coat may be any equine color. The SSH must also perform a not-trotting gait. The "saddle gaits" of the SSH may include the stepping pace, fox trot, single foot, flat walk, running walk, pace and the rack.
Comments
Jan. 10, 2008 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Anonymous
Very interesting.
I was reading in one of my Horse&Rider magazines the other day and came across an article about the 'Islandic Pony.' found out some rather interesting stuff about them. one of them being that when an Icelandic Pony is taken from it's natural habitat (Iceland) that it can never return! they didn't say why. so I'm guessing it's cause they wouldn't be able to handle they weather they have there. *shrugs shoulders*
Jan. 12, 2008 - Untitled Comment
Posted by crochetcrazy
That was very interesting to read! Thanks for sharing! I've always wanted to ride a Tennesse walker, but have never gotten the chance.
~Renee
Romans 5:8
Jan. 12, 2008 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Anonymous
So are Obadiah's gaits that different from say a stock horses? I mean are the gaited horses gaits, as smooth as they say they are?
