There are many black horses in existence and plenty of white ones too. But there are only a few horse breeds that are both black and white. They each have their own unique personality traits, temperaments, and levels of independence.
Some are popular breeds, while others are obscure. Many are easy to ride, but some are stubborn and require a great deal of training and patience before riding. The one thing all these breeds have in common is that they have black-and-white coats. Let’s learn more about common black-and-white horse breeds.
The 11 Common Black & White Horse Breeds:
1. The Appaloosa
This breed is a spotted horse that displays a 3D-reminiscent appearance. They love spending time with their human companions, and their eagerness to please makes them easy to train for those with little experience under their belt. The Appaloosa has a thin mane and tail that rarely needs to be trimmed to maintain uniformity.
2. The Paint Horse
These striking animals are extremely popular due to their amazing black-and-white coats and marble-like coloring. They have outgoing personalities and high intelligence, making them excellent companion horses. However, they are great in the show ring and on trails too. The Paint Horse stands up to 64 inches tall and weighs up to 1,200 pounds when fully grown.
3. The American Saddlebred
As the name suggests, these horses were originally developed in the United States. These gaited horses are descendants of riding horses, and as a result, they offer a smooth and comfortable ride for handlers to enjoy. They can be brown, black, gray, and other colors, but many of them are born with black-and-white coats.
- Also See: 7 Persian Horse Breeds (with Pictures)
4. The Knabstrupper
The Knabstrupper is rare, with only a few hundred of them living throughout the world today. They are sometimes likened to Dalmatian dogs because of their spotted black-and-white coats. These horses have long, slender bodies, small ears, and straight, sturdy backs that are comfortable to ride bareback. They are commonly used for show, riding, and pulling carriages. Some have even been featured in circuses.
5. The Morgan
These are popularly known as carriage horses in the United States. They have long, luxurious manes and thick tails that help protect them during the winter months. Their small ears stand erect above their heads, and their bright eyes make them always look alert. The Morgan Horse is muscular, strong, and hard working.
6. The Miniature Horse
Mini horses stand at no more than 38 inches tall and weigh in at less than 350 pounds when they become mature. They may have small bodies, but their personalities are big and expressive. These are not horses that should be ridden or worked hard. Instead, they are typically kept as companion animals by homesteaders and farmers alike. They do come in all colors, including black and white.
7. The Mustang
These horses live wild in the United States, although they originated from Spain and were brought to the U.S. via settlers. While being relocated, some of the Mustangs escaped captivity and formed packs in the wild. Today, several thousand still live wild and are protected from hunters and others who would want to capture, hurt, or even kill them.
8. The Shetland Pony
Shetland ponies are the perfect horses for children because they are intelligent, friendly, patient, and easy to work with. These horses also happen to be compact and cute. They are easy to learn to ride on, though most adults are simply too heavy for them to carry. Their thick, strong legs make them good cart pullers, and they can plow small garden plots with ease.
- See also: American Shetland Pony: Facts & Pictures
9. The Shire
The Shire Horse is known as one of the tallest on the planet, standing 72 inches tall and weighing an impressive 2,400 pounds when fully grown. The hooves on these horses are extremely large, and their eyes are expressive. They have long, silky manes, and feathering is displayed on the legs. Many Shires are black with white markings.
10. The Icelandic Horse
These horses are found in Iceland, where they live freely among the people who care for them. The Icelandic horse is intelligent, independent, and strong. They enjoy hauling materials and working in the farm fields. Their friendliness and outgoing personalities make it easy for humans to bond with them. As with many horses on this list, these come in many colors, including black and white.
11. The Tennessee Walking Horse
Developed sometime during the 18th century, the Tennessee Walking horse is best known for their even gait and smooth ride. These horses do a run-walk that can reach speeds of up to 20 miles per hour, but the ride is not bouncy or uncomfortable. People use both Western and English gear when riding these beautiful animals.
In Conclusion
There are many black and white horse breeds out there, even if those colors are not the only ones that the horses can come in. There are also pure white and pure black horse breeds. Some are rare, while others are easy to obtain elsewhere in the world. The biggest thing to consider when choosing a black and white horse to invest in their personality, work ethic, and riding quality. What are the most important traits that you are looking for in a horse? Feel free to share your thoughts with our community.
Featured Image Credit: Pixabay
