The Racking Horse is a very versatile breed that can be used for many different purposes.
They are known for their smooth gaits, which makes them perfect for both show and trail riding.
In this article, we will discuss the history of the breed and their characteristics, so if you’re curious about the Racking Horse, keep reading!
Racking Horse Breed Info
Here are some of the key things you need to know about the Racking horse:
| Height (size) | Average 15.2 hands high |
| Colors | Sorrel, chestnut, black, roan, white, bay, brown, gray, dun, palomino, buckskin, champagne and cremello |
| Country of Origin | United States of America (Southern states) |
| Common Uses | Trail riding, pleasure riding, driving, showing |
Racking Horse Facts & Information (Breed Profile)
Prior to the American Civil War, ancestors of the Racking Horse were initially bred on southern plantations.
Due to the ease and natural flow of their stride, riding them for extended periods of time was very comfortable.
Additionally, good temperament, intelligence, and versatility were other breeding goals.
Their development was comparable, and in some instances linked to that of the Tennessee Walking Horse; another prominent breed in the Southern United States.
As an alternative to the gambling that was associated with horse racing, horse shows began to gain popularity in the southern region of the United States at the end of the 19th century.
Racking Horses at that time did not have their own breed organization and were most often shown as a subtype of Tennessee Walking Horses.
In 1971 in Decatur, Alabama, the Racking Horse Breeders’ Association of America was established as the breed registry.
In the same year, the United States Department of Agriculture recognized Racking Horses as a distinct breed from the Tennessee Walking Horses which they descended from.
The Racking Horse was named Alabama’s official state horse in 1975.
If you’re interested in learning more about this fascinating breed, keep reading!
Alternative Names
n/a
Temperament/Personality
Gentle disposition, intelligent
Physical Characteristics
It is a well-proportioned, attractive mount with a long, sloping neck, broad flanks, flat legs, and finely textured coat.
The rack is a four-beat action that comes naturally, and doesn’t require special training, but creates a very comfortable, smooth ride.
Because just one foot at a time makes contact with the ground during a “rack”, the gait is also often referred to as the “single-foot”.
At a rack, the horse should display style, speed and action.
Colors
Sorrel, chestnut, black, roan, white, bay, brown, gray, dun, palomino, buckskin, champagne and cremello
Height (size)
Average 15.2 hands high
Stallions
n/a
Mares
n/a
Weight
Around 1,000 lbs (450 kg)
Blood Type
Warm
Common Uses
Trail riding, pleasure riding, driving, showing
Health
n/a
Popular Traits
Distinctive single-foot gait
Feeding/Diet
n/a
Country of Origin
United States of America (Southern states)
Ancestors
Tennessee Walking Horse