Tennessee Walking Horse is recognized all over the world for their fantastic gaits and they are the ideal breed for many horse enthusiasts who are looking for a soft ride. They have proved their amazing skills on various trails and on the show ring. It doesn’t matter where they are, on tracks or in the show ring, this breed can definitely stand out. Tennessee Walking Horses are very steady when it comes to being gaited, so beginners will feel confident in the saddle. These horses can understand their rider very well and they are prepared to do whatever task you assign them, making it one of the best horse breeds for anyone who’s never owned a horse before. Below we have decided to show you some of the most amazing facts about this breed. Keep reading!
1. There are 3 different steps with the Tennessee Walker
As their name indicates, Tennessee Walker is recognized for its running walk gait, but what you probably didn’t know is that the Tennessee Walkers also have two extra gaits that are naturally displayed. The first is a low foot walk, which has the horse reach the ground with each foot at a constant interlude. The next one is a relaxed canter, which makes them an outstanding trail riding horse. Some particular horses can also do stepping pace and fox-trot changes naturally.
2. The Tennessee Walker was produced to be an all-purpose horse
This horse breed has a special look that is very “bright,” but that isn’t the intention behind the breed. They were bred to be a regular utility horse. This is the reason why they are tall, usually thin, but still very powerful. They are horses that enjoy racing and pulling just as much as they enjoy working out on the farm.
3. Tennessee Walker has a closed studbook
Since 1947, the studbook for this horse breed was closed. This indicates that every foal must have two parents that are listed through the Tennessee Walker organization to pass for registration. If the bloodlines of a parent cannot be confirmed, even if both parents are identified to be Tennessee Walkers, the foal will not be permitted to register.
4. The Tennessee Walking Horse is one of the most famous breeds in the United States
Ever since the studbook was shut in 1947, over 450,000 horses have been recorded in the United States. All 50 states of America have Tennessee Walkers and yearly registrants can cover up to 15,000 new foals. We believe that their popularity comes from the fact that they are an easy keeper breed. Most of them only require fresh hay, with just 1-3 pounds of protein grain supplement usually needed. Some vets may also suggest a biotin supplement for this horse.
5. The most prevalent health problem with Tennessee Walkers includes their feet
Exceptional requirements are usually placed on this breed in terms of walking and showmanship. Their gait makes them go long distances without any problem, but after a long time, Laminitis and Navicular conditions are known to happen. Tennessee Walkers that participate in competitions tend to undergo a higher risk of these health problems developing. Because the gait is slightly irregular, some of the horses may also feel shoulder or back discomfort or develop arthritis over time.
6. They have an interesting history
The foundation stallion for Tennessee Walking Horses was Black Allan, or Allan F-1 as known by some. He was actually acknowledged to be a mess as a trotting horse because of his continued persistence on pacing. The owners decided to develop him instead of taking care of his trotting problem. His sire, Roan Allen could perform many gaits, and that led to the creation of a breed.
7. Tennessee Walkers are a warm-blooded breed
These beautiful horses have the ability to combine their speed and quickness, but still have a more peaceful temperament than the hot-blooded breeds. This trait makes Tennessee Walkers one of the excellent horses for riding. It’s also why you’ll see them participating in many sporting events, though their special gait can make it hard for the breed to compete in particular skill competitions such as dressage.
8. This horse breed allows all color varieties
There are recognized 14 standard coat colors accessible to Tennessee Walkers, which makes them a more different set of horses than other breeds that have color limitations. This horse breed is also one of the few that would allow various registrations, such as Palomino. Grullo is one of the unique colors in the breed, but it still fits breed standards.
