Information on the Rocky Mountain Horse ….
The Rocky Mountain Horse has been described as the Golden Retriever of the equine world. Their gentle, people-oriented temperament promotes a strong bond between horse and rider and makes them enjoyable to ride and train at any level. Rocky Mountains have an exceptional capacity to retain their training, even after extended periods of nonuse. They move with a naturally smooth gait and are intelligent and calm in challenging situations which makes them the ideal partner for avid trail enthusiasts.
As a breed they have great stamina and endurance and are able to travel 7-20 mph over long distances. Their hearty constitution makes them easy keepers even in sub-zero temperatures. They stand 14.2 – 16 hands high and in appearance are highly attractive with fine intelligent heads and long, graceful necks set to muscular shoulders. They can be any solid body color, facial markings are permissible; however, no white is allowed above the knee or hock.
The Rocky Mountain Horse naturally performs an even four beat lateral gait unlike the trot which is a two beat diagonal gait. A lateral gait moves from the back to front on one side followed by back to front on the opposite side; hence, the four even beats of the mountain gait are back right, front right, back left, front left. Since only one foot is leaving the ground at any one time, the result is a very smooth, comfortable ride. This gait allows aging baby boomers to ride all day and still walk at night. In addition to this popular ambling gait, the Rocky Mountain Horses, if asked, can also trot and canter beautifully.
Versatility made the Rocky Mountain the choice of farmers in the Appalachian Foothills to plow fields, work cattle, be ridden bareback by children and harnessed up to the family buggy. In the show ring Rockies compete in Western and English Pleasure as well as Dressage and Eventing.
Due to their versatility, gentle temperament, smooth ride, intelligence and beauty they have become increasingly popular throughout America and Canada.
