Horse riding is an exciting and rewarding hobby, but for beginners, selecting the right horse breed is crucial. Not all breeds are suitable for those just starting, as some can be challenging to handle due to their temperament, size, or nature. This guide explores seven horse breeds that beginners should avoid to ensure a safer and more enjoyable learning experience.
1. The Arabian
Arabian horses are renowned for their intelligence and smooth gait, making them comfortable for experienced riders. However, beginners should steer clear of this breed. Their sharp intellect allows them to sense inexperience or fear in a rider, leading to unpredictable behavior. While gentle with skilled handlers, Arabians can become stubborn or even dangerous when ridden by novices.
2. The Shire
Known for their towering size and gentle temperament, Shires have a long history of being war horses and farm helpers. Despite their calm nature, their height and weight can be intimidating to beginners. Mounting and dismounting a Shire can be particularly challenging, especially for shorter individuals, making them unsuitable for first-time riders.
3. The Faroese
The Faroese horse, native to the Faroe Islands, is a rare breed with a population of only about 100 worldwide. Their rarity makes them inaccessible, and their stubborn disposition poses a challenge for inexperienced riders. Even if one were available, taming this strong-willed breed requires significant skill, making it unsuitable for beginners.
4. The Percheron
This French draft horse is admired for its strength and versatility, having served in battles and on farms. However, its sheer size and power make it challenging for beginners to handle. A lack of control over a Percheron can lead to accidents, especially if the horse decides to follow its instincts rather than commands.
5. Australian Brumbies
Australian Brumbies are largely wild horses, with only a small number domesticated. Their survival traits, such as shyness and unpredictable behavior, make them unsuitable for beginners. Understanding and managing a Brumby’s behavior requires a deep knowledge of horse handling, far beyond a novice’s skill set.
6. Hanoverian
Hanoverians excel in equestrian sports due to their strength, agility, and endurance. While they might appear graceful and easy to ride in competitions, beginners often struggle to manage their size and power. Without the necessary balance and muscle control, novices risk injury while riding this energetic breed.
7. The Thoroughbred
Thoroughbreds are prized in the racing world for their speed and stamina, but these qualities make them unsuitable for beginners. Their high energy levels and strong will demand an experienced hand to guide them safely. Beginners lacking the strength and skill to manage a Thoroughbred could face severe injuries from falls or kicks.
Source:
I Heart Horses.com – https://ihearthorses.com/7-worst-horse-breeds-for-beginners-and-why/
Stay connected with us for more stories like this! Follow us to get the latest updates or hit the Follow button at the top of this article, and let us know what you think by leaving your feedback below. We’d love to hear from you!
