Arabian Horse: handsome, speedy, tough and expensive

Arabian Horse Silhouette Black and White Print, a photo by Striking Photography by Bo on Flickr.

The Arabian horse is a breed of horse that originated on the Arabian Peninsula, says Wikipedia.

With a distinctive head shape and high tail carriage, the Arabian is one of the most easily recognizable horse breeds in the world. It is also one of the oldest breeds, with archaeological evidence of horses that resemble modern Arabians dating back 4,500 years.

Throughout history, Arabian horses spread around the world by both war and trade, used to improve other breeds by adding speed, refinement, endurance, and strong bone. Today, Arabian bloodlines are found in almost every modern breed of riding horse.

The Arabian developed in a desert climate and was prized by the nomadic Bedouin people, often being brought inside the family tent for shelter and protection from theft.

Selective breeding for traits including an ability to form a cooperative relationship with humans created a horse breed that is good-natured, quick to learn, and willing to please.

The Arabian also developed the high spirit and alertness needed in a horse used for raiding and war.


Indie work:

An essay comparing the Arabian Horse and the dromedary, or Arabian camel.