How to Choose a Morgan Horse

The Morgan horse is the breed most commonly used by the U.S. government for its cavalry and national parks mounted programs.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• 8-foot Lead Rope
• Halter

1. Note the characteristics of the breed. Morgans have a clean-cut head with a broad forehead and tapered muzzle. Their ears are short, shapely and wide-set. They have compact bodies with a slightly arched neck and a deep, wide chest. Their front legs are straight with refined muscling. Their hindquarters are deeply muscled. Morgans have a high-set tail that's full and long and a full mane. They have a short, broad back, which makes them very versatile.
2. Remember an average-sized Morgan will stand 14.1 to 15.2 hands and weigh between 900 and 1,100 pounds.
3. Realize that Morgans come in all colors.
4. Understand that Morgans are quick learners with curious personalities. They are known for their long lives, intelligence and athleticism.
5. Combine the speed of a Thoroughbred, the good sense of a quarter horse, the majesty of an Arabian and the dance of a Peruvian Paso, and you'll get a Morgan horse.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact the American Morgan Horse Association at P.O. Box 9600-HR, Shelburne, VT 05482; [phone].
• Horses have unique personalities just like people do. Take some time to get to know an individual animal before purchasing it.