Last Updated on December 2, 2021
It seems like there are very few horse breeds that originated in North America, but one of the most famous of these is the Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse! As its name suggests, the this Saddle Horse originated in Kentucky and has made its home in North America ever since. The Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse has many unique characteristics that are sought after from horse loves of varying different backgrounds. Though it isn’t frequently seen in the show ring, this Horse has become a very popular breed. But why? Well, in this article, that is what I hope to explain. I will be discussing the interesting and complex history of the this Saddle Horse, and additionally, I will be discussing the common characteristics of the breed, the disciplines it is most common to see the breed participating in, and the difference between this Saddle Horse and its close relative, the Rocky Mountain horse.
History of Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse
The Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse is a relatively new breed, and its history is, therefore, a little bit easier to trace than some of the older European breeds! Allegedly, Kentucky Mountain Horse was a breed of wild horses that lived in the hills and mountains of Kentucky for decades, maybe even centuries, before it was domesticated in the 1980s. It is said that mountain people originally bred these horses to help with farming and life in the mountains. But, in the ’80s, they became recognized for other desirable characteristics, as horses were no longer needed in as many farming tasks.
One of the biggest Kentucky Mountain Horse spokespeople was Robert Robinson Jr, who founded this Saddle Horse Association in 1989. Through this association, Robinson hoped to preserve the breed and its heritage.
Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse, Characteristics
So what’s so special about this Saddle Horse? Aside from other things, the breed is known for being a popular and unique flaxen liver chestnut or silver bay color, it is known for its comfortable and natural four-beat gait, and it is known for its gentle personality.
Color
This Saddle Horse can come in many solid horse colors, including bay, palomino, gray, perlino, cremello, white, chestnut, roan, black, champagne, dun, grullo, brown, and buckskin. But, they are famous for coming in a flaxen liver chestnut or silver bay color. This color includes chocolate, dark brown coat, and silver or cream-colored mane and tail. Many Rocky Mountain Horses are bred specifically for this color, and it is highly sought after among followers of the breed. Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horses can also come in this color, and it is very sought after.
Size
Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horses can also come in a variety of sizes, typically ranging from 11-16 hands. So, they don’t get huge, and they can be very small, even pony-sized! Because of this, there are actually two different classifications in this Saddle Horse Size. This Saddle Horses that are between 11-14.1 hands tall are considered pony-sized, and are called “Class B.” This Saddle Horses that are between 14.2-16 hands tall are considered horse-sized and are called “Class A.”
Though the “pony-sized” ones aren’t called Kentucky Mountain Saddle Ponies, they are still called Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horses. Rocky Mountain Saddle Horses were often used as kids horses or as “husband horses,” so they didn’t need to be monstrously tall sport horses. They simply needed to be comfortable, safe, and sturdy mounts.
Personality
The personality of the Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse is one of the most popular characteristics of the breed. They are bred to be gentle, calm, and smart horses. The Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse is often called a “kids horse,” or a “husband horse,” because it is gentle and smart enough to take care of people who may not be horse experts. They are popular family horses and popular first horses for many beginner adults. They have even been called the “golden retriever” of the horse world.
Popular Disciplines
Another reason why the Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse is popular as a family mount is because of its comfortable four-beat gait. The Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse is capable of all normal horse gaits (the walk, the trot, the canter, and the gallop), in addition to its unique four-beat gait that comes in a similar speed to the trot. Because of this gait, Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horses are popular trail horses. They can be ridden for long distances without discomforting their riders. They are also popular pleasure horses and can be ridden in parades, 4-H events, and more.
Kentucky Mountain Horse V. Rocky Mountain Horse
The Kentucky Mountain Horse is often confused with its relative, the Rocky Mountain Horse. The two breeds are extremely similar, and that is because the Rocky Mountain Horses come from Kentucky Mountain Horses. 
Rocky Mountain Horses are most famous for the famous flaxen liver chestnut and silver bay coloring. They actually got these because of their share bloodlines with the Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse. Rocky Mountain Horses also have a fifth gait and are also popular for their gentle, easy-going personalities.
Conclusion
The Kentucky Mountain Horse is an all-around good citizen. It is a gentle breed good for children, pleasure riders, and beginners. They are gentle, comfortable to ride, and sturdy on their feet. Their low maintenance levels and comfortable gaits are why many horse lovers are drawn to the Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse. They are kind horses that will keep you and your family safe in the saddle. I hope this article helped you learn more about the Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse. They are a fantastic breed of horse that originated in North America. If you enjoyed this article, please share it with your friends, and share with us your experiences with the Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse!
FAQs
What are Kentucky Mountain Saddle horses used for?
Kentucky Mountain Saddle horses are used for a wide variety of things. They can be used as riding horses, show horses, police horses, and also for work on farms. Kentucky Mountain Saddle horses are bred to be versatile, so they can be used for several different purposes. They are known for their good temperament and calm dispositions, which makes them well-suited for a variety of tasks. Kentucky Mountain Saddle horses are also very sturdy and sure-footed, which comes in handy when they're working on rough terrain.
What is the gait of a Kentucky Mountain Saddle horse?
Kentucky Mountain Saddle horses have a unique ambling gait called the single-foot.
Extra footsteps of the single-foot gait provide additional smoothness while riding because the horse always has at least one foot on the ground. This reduces the movement of the horse's topline and eliminates the bounce, common for a two-beat gait, which makes riding more comfortable for the horse and the rider. It also helps the horse conserve energy while still being able to move quickly.
Kentucky Mountain Saddle horses have been known to maintain a speed of 30 miles per hour for up to 40 miles. They can travel long distances with ease, which makes them well-suited for multi-day rides.
How long do Kentucky Mountain horses live?
Kentucky Mountain Saddle horses have a lifespan of around 25 to 30 years. They are known for their longevity, and many of them are still going strong in their late twenties and early thirties. This makes them a valuable commodity, both for personal use and for work on farms and ranches. Kentucky Mountain Saddle horses are sure to provide many years of excellent service. Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horses are intelligent, sturdy and long-lived.
How much weight can a Kentucky Mountain Saddle horse carry?
Kentucky Mountain Saddle horses are strong and sturdy, and they can carry a significant amount of weight. They are able to carry up to 200 pounds without any trouble.
They often serve as police horses because they can carry their riders for several hours without getting tired. Kentucky Mountain Saddle horses can also be used for work on farms and ranches. They are able to haul heavy loads, which makes them a valuable resource on the farm.
How much do Rocky Mountain Saddle horses cost?
An average price for Kentucky Mountain Saddle horse is about $5,000. The price can vary greatly and depends on several factors, including bloodline, conformation and training level.
Kentucky Mountain Saddle horses are a popular breed due to their versatility, intelligence and endurance. Because of their qualities they are in high demand which means that the price can be quite high for a good horse. They are a valuable asset, and they provide many years of service.
Kentucky Mountain Saddle horses are a wise investment for anyone looking for a reliable riding horse or workhorse.
Michael Dehaan is a passionate horse owner, horse rider, and lover of all things equine. He has been around horses since he was a child, and has grown to become an expert in the field. He has owned and ridden a variety of horses of different breeds, and has trained many to compete in shows and competitions. He is an experienced horseman, having worked with and competed many horses, including his own. He is an active member of the equestrian community, participating in events and teaching riding lessons.
