Thoroughbreds are the most popular racing horse in the world today. Here's everything you need to know about this horse breed.

Thoroughbreds - Facts

1. Breed Group:

   Thoroughbreds are considered to be in the warm blooded group.

2. Height & Weight:

   Average Thoroughbreds are 16 to 17 HH and weigh between 1,000 to 1,300 pounds.

3. Coat:

   The coat should be silky and smooth. Once they are groomed their coat should look shinier than ever.

4. Head & Neck:

   Their head is finely chiseled and elegant with an arched and long neck.

5. Body:

   The body has a deep chest, sloping shoulders, and powerful muscles. Thoroughbreds are known for their muscular hindquarters.

6. Conformation:

   The Thoroughbred shows great conformation.

7. Colors:

   They can be any color as long as it is distributed evenly and there are white markings on the head.

8. Gait:

   Thoroughbreds have become popular racehorses because of their long and sure-footed gait.

9. Popularity:

   It is the most popular breed of horse and is popular in the racing line.

10. Registries:

    The Jockey Club of America is the American registry for Thoroughbreds.

Thoroughbreds - Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   The country of origin for the Thoroughbred is England.

2. Lineage/Bloodline:

   It is said Thoroughbreds are descendents of three Arabian horses brought to England in the 18th century.

3. Historical Information:

   Bulle Rocke, in 1730, was the first Thoroughbred to arrive in America.

Thoroughbreds - Defining Characteristics

1. Training Ease:

   The horse is very easily trained, especially with the help of a professional trainer.

2. Temperament:

   The Thoroughbred is said to have a quick, nervous temperament.

3. Child Friendly:

   The horse is great for children that are older and have previous riding experience.

4. Behavior:

   The horses can get frightened easily by noises that are unfamiliar. They are also said to be a restless horse.

5. Riding Ease:

   A Thoroughbred is a great riding horse for any level of riding skills. They are a very smooth riding horse and have a very fast gallop.

6. Uses:

   Most Thoroughbreds are used for racing. Once in awhile you will see them used in jumping and dressage.

Thoroughbreds - Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   Thoroughbreds are prone to Equine Infectious Anemia. It is suggested that you perform a Coggins Test yearly.

2. Feeding:

   You should feed your horse a high protein alfalfa. Hay and legumes are also an important part of their diet.

3. Outfitting:

   Thoroughbreds require basic, sturdy tack.

Thoroughbreds - How to Choose

1. What to Look for:

   You want to look for a sturdy build and gait, a shiny coat, healthy tail and mane, and clear eyes. It would be a good idea to take your veterinarian along with you when looking to purchase a horse.

2. What you will Need:

   You will need grooming supplies, a saddle, saddle blanket, reins, bridles, and proper food.