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9 Horse Breeds Known For Their Impressive Speed

9 Horse Breeds Known For Their Impressive Speed

These magnificent animals have accompanied us through history and proven to be one of man’s best friends. 

But did you ever wonder what makes horses so fast? Is it a natural trait or is it all training? Keep on reading to find out which breeds are the fastest and what makes them stand out.

9. Appaloosa 

appaloosa horse in snow

Native to Northern America, this horse breed is easily recognizable by its unique coat pattern. It has a colorful spotted coat and vertical striped hooves. 

Although they are not as fast as other breeds on the list, the Appaloosa horse can still reach approximately 30 miles per hour. 

8. Akhal–Teke

akhalteke horse

This gorgeous horse breed is best known for their metallic-like coat. Besides being absolutely stunning, the Akhal–Teke horse has a reputation for its intelligence and agility. This stunning horse breed can reach a speed of 35 miles per hour.

7. Friesian

fresian horse

This breathtaking breed is recognizable by their black coat, feather-like hair on the lower part of its legs, and elegant appearance. 

The Friesian horse faced near extinction at one point in history, but fortunately, it made a remarkable comeback. Primarily used for riding, this breed can reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour.

6. Mustang

mustang horses

The wild horses of Western United States are best known for their distinctive shape and small noses. 

In a normal gallop this horse breed can reach speeds of 30 miles per hour, however, the fastest speed ever recorded was a whopping 55 miles per hour!

5. Andalusian

white andalusian horse

One of my favorites from this list is the stunning Andalusian horse. With their thick manes and tails, these horses are powerfully built yet incredibly elegant.

Although speed is not their primary strength, Andalusian horses can reach up to 35 miles per hour.

4. Arabian Horse

arabian stallion

The Arabian Horse is one of the most recognizable horse breeds in the world. With their high tail carriage and uniquely shaped head, these horses are also known for their gentleness, stamina, and speed. 

The average speed of the Arabian horse is 34 miles per hour, while the fastest Arabian horse ever recorded reached 40 miles per hour!

3. American Quarterhorse 

American Quarterhorse

Also known by the name Quarter horse, this gorgeous breed excels when it comes to sprinting short distances. 

This American horse breed is exceptionally trainable and is known to reach whopping speeds of 55 miles per hour on short tracks.

2. American Paint Horse

american paint horse

The American Paint Horse is a favorite when it comes to trail riding, pleasure riding, and showing. 

However, this breed is also highly trainable when it comes to racing. They can reach speeds of 60 miles per hour and are one of the favorite horse breeds among cattle ranchers in the West.

1. Thoroughbred 

Thoroughbred horse

Making number one on our list today is without a doubt the Thoroughbred horse who is specifically bred for racing. 

They are known for their ‘hot-blooded temperament’ and agility, with the fastest maximum speed being a whopping 45 miles per hour!