Wild West’s favorite breed of horse – American Quarter Horse.

In the early 19th century, Quarter Horses were overshadowed by Thoroughbreds, which ran better over longer distances. But Quarter Horses soon found a new acceptance in the western and southwestern United States as stock horses.

The breed’s inherent quickness and agility made it ideally suited to the tasks of the developing frontier. Its good-natured disposition and natural cow-sense made the American Quarter Horse a favourite mount among cowboys during the open-range era of the West.

Modern American Quarter Horses are short and stocky, with heavy muscular development; short, wide heads; and deep, broad chests. Since these horses are used to cut cattle from herds, fast starting, turning, and stopping ability and speed for short distances are essential qualities.

Their colours are variable, but all are solid. The height of mature animals varies from 57 to 64 inches, or 145 to 163 cm, and their weight varies from 950 to 1,200 pounds (431 to 544 kg). They have a calm, cooperative temperament.