Missouri Fox Trotter
Background:
In the 19th century, settlers in America’s Ozark Mountains needed a reliable, sure-footed horse that could travel long distances in rough, mountainous terrain. They bred a versatile horse that The Missouri Fox Trotting Horse has Arabian, Morgan, Thoroughbred, Saddlebred, Tennessee Walking Horse and Standardbred ancestry. The horse’s three natural gaits are its long-striding, flat-footed walk, smooth fox trot, and “rocking chair” canter. No special shoeing or training is needed to perform these gaits.
Conformation:
Graceful neck and well-shaped head with pointed ears, large eyes and a tapered muzzle. Deep chest. Short, strong back. Strong hooves.
Characteristics:
Very surefooted and comfortable to ride. Not a high-stepper, but its gliding gait is very smooth. In the Missouri Fox Trot gait, the horse is walking in front, but trotting behind as the hind feet have a sliding action. The horse’s head nods in rhythmic motionw tih this four-beat gait, and the tail also moves with the beat. Head and tail carriage are elevated.
Temperament:
Intelligent and gentle. Very tainable. Good family horse.
How tall is it?
14 to 16 hands
What can I use it for?
Trail riding, endurance riding, pleasure riding and showing.
Where does it come from?
United States, North America
Photos © Bob Langrish 2007.
