How old is the arabian breed

There are many examples of Arabian horses carrying heavy riders over great distances with little food or water. This extraordinary stamina is perhaps the most important physical characteristic of the breed. The Arabian possesses an abundance of slow-twitch muscle fibers in contrast to the fast-twitch fibers found in other breeds. This makes them capable of using oxygen more efficiently, and sustaining speed over great distances.

Their well-sprung ribs, large, flexible nostrils and unique attachment of the neck to the head all allow for tremendous lung capacity. Because of these valuable traits the Arabian horse is the supreme equine to compete in the popular international sport of endurance racing. Known for intelligence, courage, loyalty and a spirited yet gentle disposition, the Arabian breed has an amazing affinity for humans. For centuries the Bedouin treated their horses as members of the family. The foals were raised with their children, the mares sought shelter in their tents.

Over time this became a genetic characteristic of the breed and one of its most endearing traits. Arabian horses bond strongly with their humans, and have a strong desire to please. They actively seek affection and return it in kind. The unique combination of characteristics of the Arabian breed makes them extremely versatile horses that cheerfully engage in many tasks, whether excelling as show horses, being ridden English or western, working cattle or racing, or just being the ultimate equine companion.

Some bloodlines are known for their specific appearances, such as the high white socks and white faces of the Crabbet bloodline.

Arabians are never dun, cremello, palomino, or buckskin because purebreds don't carry dilutions genes. Sabino, a type of white pattern on the skin and coat, is the only spotted pattern now carried in pure Arabian lines.

The skin of the Arabian horse is black, except for under white markings. The dark pigmentation protected the horses against the harsh desert sun. While they're ancestors of many modern-day horses, many traits set Arabians apart from other breeds. Arabians are known for their long, arched necks and high tail carriage. They have floating gaits and are smooth to ride for their size. They're also renowned for their endurance, which makes them competitive in equestrian sports. Arabian horses require a healthy balance of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, minerals, vitamins, and water in their diet.

Like most horses, they eat fresh grass, quality hay, grains, and some fruits and veggies. Because their ancestors came from deserts with scarce food, Arabians actually might require a little less feed than other breeds their size to maintain a healthy weight.

Arabians are prone to several genetic disorders, ranging in seriousness from treatable to fatal. They include:. In terms of behavior, Arabians are generally very sociable with people. Arabian horses need standard equine grooming to keep their coat and skin healthy. Regular brushing, especially after exercise, will distribute sweat and oils.

And using a detangler can help keep their mane and tail smooth. Arabians have played prominent roles in history, carrying important people in war, winning races, and garnering starring roles in movies and books. A few examples include:. Arabian horses can be loving, loyal, and responsive companions. But they are hot-blooded and highly intelligent horses that need someone with equine experience to train them.

Some older and well-trained Arabians—as well as Arabian crossbreeds—might work for a person with limited horse knowledge, though Arabians do typically remain active well into their golden years.

Arabians tend to be more people-oriented than many other horse breeds, and they enjoy the company of their human families. They're generally a healthy and hardy breed, and they adapt well to a range of environments.

Because Arabians are a popular breed, they are fairly easy to find at reputable horse rescues or breeders. And if possible, have your own vet check out the horse before you decide to bring it home. Also, spend time with the horse, and have the organization show you how it has been trained.

If you ever feel the organization is not being transparent or rushing you through this process, you might consider looking elsewhere for your horse. At that time they took with them the prototype of the modern Arabian horse. There can be little dispute, however, that the Arabian horse has proved to be, throughout recorded history, an original breed-which remains to this very day. Neither sacred nor profane history tells us the country where the horse was first domesticated, or whether he was first used for work or riding.

He probably was used for both purposes in very early times and in various parts of the world. We know that by B. About years ago the hot-blooded horse assumed the role of king-maker in the east, including the valley of the Nile and beyond, changing human history and the face of the world.

Through him the Egyptians were made aware of the vast world beyond their own borders. The Pharaohs were able to extend the Egyptian empire by harnessing the horse to their chariots and relying on his power and courage. With his help, societies of such distant lands as the Indus Valley civilizations were united with Mesopotamian cultures.