History & Heritage
The Arabian horse is renowned for its unparalleled beauty, rich history, and remarkable bond with humans. For thousands of years, Arabians lived among the desert tribes of the Arabian Peninsula, bred by the Bedouins as war mounts for endurance and speed during long treks and quick raids. These harsh desert conditions gave the Arabian its large lung capacity and incredible stamina, making it a breed designed to thrive in extreme environments.
In the 7th century A.D., the prophet Mohammed played a crucial role in spreading the Arabian’s influence worldwide. He instructed his followers to care for these horses with kindness, emphasizing the importance of the mares for the breed’s continuity. According to legend, Allah created the Arabian, and those who treated the horse well would be rewarded in the afterlife.
The nomadsโ harsh lifestyle required them to share their resources, including food and water, with their horses, even allowing them inside their tents. This close relationship fostered a strong bond between humans and Arabians, making the breed known for its intelligence and affinity with people.
The Bedouin tribes were highly selective in their breeding practices, maintaining the purity of the Arabian horse over centuries. These practices resulted in the stunning and athletic breed we know today, characterized by a distinctive dished profile, large expressive eyes, small curved ears, and large, efficient nostrils.
Remarkably, todayโs purebred Arabians are nearly identical to those ridden in ancient Arabia. Their athletic abilities now span a wide range of disciplines, from English and Western riding to endurance events, where they continue to reign as champions.
Arabians have influenced nearly every modern horse breed, contributing their qualities of speed, endurance, and soundness.
If you’re seeking a horse thatโs not only an adventure or competition partner but also a lifelong friend, the Arabian may be the perfect choice.