ORIGIN: Iceland, brought by Norse settlers over 1,000 years ago.
SIZE: 13 to 14 hands (pony-sized but referred to as a horse)
BUILD: Compact, muscular and thick-coated for harsh climates.
COLORS: All colors.
GAITS: Famous for having five gaits including the tolt, a smooth four-beat gait unique to the breed.
TEMPERAMENT: Calm, friendly and great for beginners or trail riding.
LIFESPAN: Up to 40 years.ORIGIN: Iberian Peninsula (Spain), with records dating back to the 15th century.
SIZE: 15 to 16.2 hands
BUILD: Elegant, compact and well-muscled with a thick, flowing mane and tail.
COLORS: All colors
GAITS: Naturally collected movement, making them a top choice for dressage.
TEMPERAMENT: Intelligent, sensitive, and cooperative – best for experienced riders.
ORIGIN: United States, developed from a mix of Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse bloodlines.
SIZE: 14.2 to 16.2 hands.
BUILD: Sturdy and athletic.
COLORS: Defined by a two-toned coat pattern Main patterns include: tobiano, overo, and tovero.
TEMPERAMENT: Friendly, easygoing and intelligent.
ORIGIN: 17th-century Europe, where they were selectively bred for companionship by nobility and later used for working in coal mines due to their small size.
HEIGHT: Average under 34 to 38 inches or 8.5 to 9.5 hands
COLORS: All colors including solid coats, pintos, and spotted
COAT: Thicker than full-size horses
LIFESPAN: 25 to 35 years, longer than full-size horsesKEY CARE REQUIREMENTS
