The Horse Breed Reference List can be found on its page listed on the right sidebar. You can also access the formatted PDF by clicking on the image above.
The list represents the way I would sort the different breeds based on body shape, genetic relationships, use, and showing traditions. It is offered as a resource, but I want to stress that there are numerous ways to sort breeds. I will explain some of my choices in subsequent posts, but there isn't one "right" way. For example, I debated whether to place Finnhorses and Coldblooded Trotters in the Harness Racing sub-section or the Light Draft and Cob section. Arguments could be made—and were made!—that these are both cold-blooded breeds. It is even in the name of the Trotters. In the end, I went with their traditional use. I was also swayed by what I knew might better balance the size and competitiveness of the different options. Those pragmatic considerations might be different in some regions or even for certain specialty shows.
That is why there is also an editable version of the list. It allows show holders to use the same basic framework while also making changes that fit their specific needs. My only request is that the silhouette graphics remain with the formatted list and not be added to an edited list. This will reduce confusion about whether an entrant has the correct version of the list for a particular show.
Aside from that one request, feel free to use this list in whatever way might be useful.
Love love how this is put together. This would make so much more sense than some of the commonly used breed groupings
ReplyDeleteBig effort, and very cool and so useful!
ReplyDeleteThe warmbloods are such an interesting problem for splits because the breeds are all so closely related and often sharing breeding stock. Back in the day when there were so few Warmblood like model horses we could have them in one class but now it's an embarrassment of riches with so many really lovely examples.
Also appreciate your clarifications on what the regional names should mean. :-)
Given that you didn't use height as a criterion, I wonder if you can comment on your thinking around grouping POAs and Quarter Ponies in with other ponies versus the stock section. I can see going either way for sure.
I appreciate your efforts greatly!
ReplyDeletePlease add Sumba Pony. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteI noticed Miniature Horses are under Pony breeds, have you considered separating the traditional Miniature Horse and the more refined modern version? Scott Creek Miniature Horses is a great example of a Mini breeder who produces Horses that would more likely fall under Pony Breeds of the Americas. As a note Scott Creek tends to stay away from sheltland blood and are not American Shetlands or Shetland blends.
ReplyDeleteForgot to say, this is an amazing reference and I will definitely be makeing use of it in the future.
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