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Step 1
Look for distinct color variations in the coat. A mottled appearance, particularly near the hindquarters, indicates an Appaloosa. If large splotches of white and another color exist on the coat, you probably have a Paint or Pinto.
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Step 2
Examine the conformation of the horse's torso. Many breeds can be identified by specific body characteristics. For instance, the Morgan has a stocky, solid body with the tail placed high.
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Step 3
Check the horse's head, as you'll find variations among the breeds. The refined head of a Thoroughbred differs from the Morgan's broad forehead and short ears.
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Step 4
Measure your horse by how many hands it is from the bottom of its front hooves to the high point of its torso, or its withers. A hand is equal to four inches. Arabians tend to be smaller, at 14 hands, than Clydesdales, which can be as tall as 18 hands.
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Step 5
Follow the line of the legs. Thoroughbreds dominate horseracing in part because the long tendons and muscles in their legs make them so good at running.
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Step 6
Determine horse breeds by the feet. The Clydesdale, for example, has large, strong feet, good for pulling heavy weights through muddy or uneven fields, making this breed a great work horse.
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Step 7
Recognize that you may have a Cross-Breed horse if significant characteristics of more than one breed are present.
