Tiger Horse: Breed Profile
The tiger horse is a breed of American horse that has only been officially recognized with its own registry in the United States since 2011. However genetically the tiger horse is said to date back to ancient China.
Tiger horses are known for their elaborate spotted coat patterns much like the Appaloosa and for their ambling gait. These horses are moderately popular in the US and are specifically sought for their coloration and special gait.
Tiger Horse History and Origins
Researchers theorize that the tiger horse may date back to ancient China around 618 AD. Many years later these horses were imported into Europe and rose in popularity during the time Europeans were colonizing America. This resulted in Tiger Horses becoming known in America as well.
Unfortunately the genetic lines were mixed with other horse breeds such as the Thoroughbred Arabian and Quarter Horse. This mixing resulted in a dilution of the Tiger Horses genetics and allowed the dominant genes of the other breeds to erase the coveted characteristics that this breed is known for such as an ambling gait and brilliant coat coloration. Luckily there were a few horses from the original bloodlines of the Tigers remaining in parts of Canada and North America especially in the Pacific Northwest regions. These horses were used to reestablish the Tiger Horse breed1.
Tiger Horse Size
On average the typical Tiger Horse will weigh 700 to 1500 pounds in weight and stand 13 to 16 hands or 52 to 64 inches tall. Some horses may be taller or heavier than this as well.
Breeding and Uses
The tiger horse breed was developed for their unique leopardlike coats and their special gait called an amble or shuffle. Today they are often used as companion pets and casual riding mounts.
Colors and Markings
The most remarkable and important aspect of coloration on a tiger horse is their spots. The base coat color is acceptable to be many colors including white black and
