Rocky Mountain Horse_Breed Profile

 Good natured surefooted and hardy riders love the Rocky Mountain Horse for man different reasons. But one of the horses most appealing characteristics may be its four beat single footed gait. That gait conserves the horses energy but makes for a smooth enjoyable ride making the horse suitable for endurance riding trail riding and more. But thats far from all the Rocky Mountain Horse doesyoull find this breed pulling carriages and plows competing in the show ring tackling tough mountain trails and much much more.

Rocky Mountain Horse History and Origins
The Rocky Mountain Horses heritage is attributed to stories that have been passed from generation to generation. During the 1800s to 1900s horses emerged in eastern Kentucky and became known for their gentle temperament and more importantly for their fourbeat gait. That gait was comfortable to ride but the horses showed versatility in being able to pull plows work cattle and serve as buggy horses too. Their easygoing temperament also made them suitable for children to ride.
Gradually the number of horses in the area increased and while some were bred with horses of other breeds the Rocky Mountain Horse retained its desirable characteristics. Because the owners of these horses were not rich they could only afford minimal upkeep on the horses. The weaker horses didnt survive the winters but the horses that did survive were hardy and they passed that hardiness down to their offspring. 
One of these horses was brought from the countrys Rocky Mountain region to eastern Kentucky and is regarded as the foundation stallion of the breed. Sam Tuttle who lived in Spout Springs Kentucky used this breed as riding horses for years and preferred them for their ability to safely carry even inexperienced riders over rough trails. Tuttles stallion Old Tobe was known as being the most surefooted and gentle horse and he passed his characteristics on to many of the Rocky Mountain Horses of today.
In 2005 the Rocky Mountain Horse Association was created and today over 12000 horses have been registered with the association.
Rocky Mountain Horse Size
The breed standard requires that these horses stand at least 14 2 hands and no more than 16 hands high. This breed has a deep chest sloping shoulders and a short back. The horses have well shaped well defined ears and a medium sized head. Their necks are arched and positioned to allow a natural break at the poll. Because these horses are gaited their