The Half-Arabian horse represents a captivating crossbreeding endeavor, bringing together the esteemed qualities of the purebred Arabian with those of other breeds. This union results in horses that are not only athletic and intelligent but also possess enhanced stamina, making them exceptionally suited for a wide array of equestrian disciplines. As described by the United States Equestrian Federation, the Half-Arabian is a custom-made show horse, excelling in everything from reining and cow work to English pleasure and all-around competitions. The Arabian Horse Association (AHA) proudly registers a significant number of Half-Arabians, with current figures indicating over 348,000 registered individuals.
To be eligible for registration as a Half-Arabian or Anglo-Arabian with the AHA, specific criteria must be met. The fundamental requirement is that one parent must be a registered Arabian. The second parent can be a purebred of another breed, a grade horse, or even another Half-Arabian. For Anglo-Arabian crosses, the lineage can be an Arabian crossed with a Thoroughbred, or combinations involving Anglo-Arabians themselves, with the stipulation that the offspring must have between 25% and 75% Arabian blood. Both Half-Arabians and Anglo-Arabians are permitted to compete together in the same classes at AHA-sanctioned events and are eligible for various awards offered by the association. This inclusive approach highlights the breed’s versatility and appeal across different equestrian interests.
Popular Half-Arabian Crosses
The appeal of the Half-Arabian lies in its ability to blend the Arabian’s inherent strengths with the specific traits of other breeds, leading to several popular and distinct crosses. Each combination offers a unique set of characteristics that cater to different riding styles and competitive goals.
Anglo-Arabian: A Historical Blend
The development of the Anglo-Arabian began in France around 1750, when breeders started crossing their Thoroughbred mares with Arabian and Turkish stallions. This selective breeding process continued through the early 19th century, eventually establishing a recognized standard for the breed. The formal requirements for the Anglo-Arabian were solidified in 1880. This cross embodies the refinement and athleticism of the Thoroughbred with the endurance and intelligence of the Arabian, creating a horse known for its elegance and performance capabilities.
Morab: An American Original
The Morab, a distinctive cross between the Arabian and the Morgan horse, is a proud American original. These horses are eligible for registration with multiple organizations, including the AHA, the International Morab Breeders Association (IMBA), and the Purebred Morab Horse Association (PMHA). The Morab inherits the Arabian’s grace and spirit alongside the Morgan’s strength, versatility, and calm demeanor. This combination results in a horse that is well-suited for various disciplines, from pleasure riding to more demanding competitive events, and is often prized for its gentle disposition and trainability.
National Show Horse: The English Pleasure Specialist
Emerging as a relatively new American breed, the National Show Horse (NSH) and its dedicated registry were established in 1981. Initially, the NSH was developed as a cross between the Arabian and the American Saddlebred. This deliberate pairing aimed to create the quintessential English show horse, particularly excelling in saddle seat classes such as park, English pleasure, and equitation. The NSH possesses the Arabian’s refined beauty and athleticism, combined with the American Saddlebred’s elegant high-stepping gait and presence, making it a standout performer in English riding disciplines.
Quarab: Blending Western and Arabian Traits
The Quarab represents the cross of an Arabian with either a Quarter Horse or an American Paint Horse. With deep American roots, the breeding of Quarabs began in the 1960s. This cross seeks to combine the Arabian’s speed, stamina, and intelligence with the Quarter Horse’s or Paint’s stocky build, strong hindquarters, and calm temperament. The resulting Quarab is a versatile equine athlete, capable of excelling in both English and Western disciplines, including reining, cutting, pleasure riding, and more. Their adaptable nature and good looks make them highly sought after by a wide range of horse enthusiasts.
A World of Versatility
In essence, all Half-Arabian crosses offer a remarkable blend of desirable traits from their parent breeds, providing the “best of both worlds” for riders. Whether your interest lies in English disciplines, Western riding, trail adventures, or the intensity of eventing, there is likely a Half-Arabian ready to join you on your next equestrian journey. Their adaptability, combined with the enduring legacy of the Arabian’s athleticism and spirit, makes them a compelling choice for riders of all levels and interests.
KARA L. STEWART is a freelance writer and horse owner based in Colorado.
This article originally appeared in the June 2014 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!
