Black Thoroughbred Horses have journeyed far -- from myth into reality. Here's everything you need to know about this horse breed.
Black Thoroughbred Horses - Horse Breed Facts
Breed Group:
Race horseHeight & Weight:
Tall, about 15.2 to 16.1 hands high; weight averages between 1000 to 1200 pounds.Coat:
Coats are glossy black with fine and smooth hair on them. Coats can be made glossier by regular grooming.Head & Neck:
Heads are strong and well developed and mounted on a long tough neck.Body:
Black thoroughbred horses have the most muscular and strong bodies among all horse breeds.Conformation:
Black thoroughbred horses are generally tall, rangy, with long legs and a long sloping shoulder and a long neck.Colors:
Purely blackGait:
They are experts at all types of gaits such as walking, trotting, cantering and galloping.Popularity:
Black thoroughbred horses have been the most popular horses since the oldest of known times.Registries:
The Jockey Club has been registering thoroughbreds since 1857.
Black Thoroughbred Horses - Horse Breed Origins
Country of Origin:
EnglandLineage/Bloodline:
All thoroughbreds in the world are direct descendants of crossing English mares with oriental stallions.Historical Information:
They were considered mythical creatures, viz. the black stallions, until they were actually produced by hybridization in the 1600s.
Black Thoroughbred Horses - Horse Breed Defining Characteristics
Training Ease:
They require professional trainers, especially for sporting events. They may be a bit reluctant to learn in the beginning.Temperament:
They are mild-mannered beasts, but they require familiarization with the surroundings.Child Friendly:
They may not be ideal horses for children due to their extremely fast gaits.Behavior:
They are gentle creatures and are obedient to only their masters.Riding Ease:
Rides on a black thoroughbred may be uncomfortable for amateurs. They are typically race horses.Uses:
The prime use of black thoroughbreds is in racing. They are also used as studs to obtain desirable features in other breeds.
Black Thoroughbred Horses - Horse Breed Concerns
Health Issues:
They are prone to many diseases such as tetanus, equine influenza and HYPP. Regular veterinary care is a must.Feeding:
They are heavy eaters. They may eat every hour if food is available. However, they can also manage without food due to their Arabian origins.Outfitting:
They need to be shod well with a saddle, bridle, knee pads and hoof pads.
Black Thoroughbred Horses - How to Choose a Horse Breed
What to Look for:
Size does not matter when selecting a black thoroughbred for racing. It is the overall body conformation and bone structure that must be seen. Dental makeup is an indicative of overall body health.What you will Need:
A proper and hygienic stable area with food and water tubs, a complete horse outfit, veterinary care and a professional trainer.