The Arabian horse is an animal which has lived on the Arabian Peninsula for well over 2000 years.
Strength, beauty and endurance are typical traits of this breed of horse. Studies have show that Arabian horses are amongst the oldest breeds discovered in the world.
The nomadic Bedouins were first given credit for taming Arabs. The Bedouins made every effort to protect the purity of these horses, and many could trace back the lineage of the horses they owned. During these times they needed a rapid, strong and reliable horse. It also had to be able to inhabit the desert environment. The Bedouin tribes were constantly at war with other tribes in the region, and it was necessary to have a horse which could lead them into battle.
The Bedouins soon acheived status for breeding some of the most beautiful arab horses ever seen. Information regarding the horses’ linegeage and ancestry was exchanged during the trade of this breed. There are many different strains or variations of the Arabian horse. They are similar in appearance and share ancestry. Including; Kuhaylan, Dahman and Hadban.
Arabian horses are said to be one of, if not the most recognised breeds in the world. Arabs have a small muzzle, large expressive eyes and a characteristally triangular shaped head. Possibly the most prized Arabs are the ones with concave noses. An Arab neckline should be arched, and they have toned muscular legs. Their coats should have a sheen, often referred to as being silk-like. As they do not have a good bascule Arabian breeds are not frequent competitors at show jumping meets.
Most Arabian horses have a coat which is grey or brown, and some horses also have black coats. Arabs with black coats were at one point a rarity as it was thought their dark coats would absorb the heat, making it dangerous for both rider and horse. Such is the purity of the Arabian horse gene, it is frequently used in accentuating the features of other breeds. Arabian horses are very well mannered, an attribute breeders find very attractive.
Professional horse competitions have used Arabian horses for a great deal of time, and there are even competitions each year between Arabian horses and there owners.
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