Best Horses for Trail Riding

by Angela Vuckovic

Published: December 16th, 2022

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For avid horse riders, it is not all about competing and shuffling through different equestrian competitions. Sure, you can excel at barrel riding, obstacle courses, racing, and even dressage – but there is also a less competitive, calmer side of horse riding to explore. When you want to feel one with nature and deepen the bond between you and your horse, trail riding is the thing to do. Just brave the wilds, explore the trails, and see what your mount is truly capable of. Trail riding is a popular equine activity, and can last from just a few hours up to several days and weeks. Of course, trail riding can have a competitive side as well – if that’s your cup of tea. Either way, you will need a special mount in order to succeed: a horse that is sure-footed, hardy, and able to tackle any type of terrain. This list of the 10 best horses for trail riding will certainly help you in your selection – read on to find a perfect match!

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#1 Appaloosa

Trail riding is all about a horse’s skill, agility, surefootedness, and endurance. Whether you engage in it for competition or pure enjoyment, you will need an appropriate mount. Appaloosa horses are one of America’s most recognizable breeds. And it’s not only their coloring that sets them apart – but it is also a set of specific and enjoyable traits ideal for trail riding. These horses are known as agile and hardy and are widely appreciated for their comfortable gait. And when you spend many hours in the saddle, you really know to appreciate this aspect. In many ways, Appaloosa is a famed and respected breed, developed across generations to excel in many equine activities. So, if you are looking to have a solid mount on your next trail ride, the old American Appaloosa horse is just the companion you need.

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#2 Tennessee Walking Horse

When you are out on a trail, for hours on end, comfort becomes a very important thing to take care of. Of course, comfort is largely dependent on the type of mount you have, and the way they can handle the rugged and unexpected trail terrain. The Tennessee Walking horse is a famed American breed, whose gait is renowned far and wide for its smoothness and finesse. These horses are also known to be hardy and to have fantastic stamina. That is all a trail horse needs to have. Besides all this, the Tennessee Walking horse has a very even and agreeable temperament, is easy to handle, and responds well to training. In many ways, they are great for novice riders too, and anyone who is a beginner on the outdoor trails.

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#3 Thoroughbred

The Thoroughbred horse is famed on the race track and the competition course. But those are not the only places where they excel. With great speed, stamina, agility, and gait, the Thoroughbred can be a superb mount for trail riding. They can trundle on for hours on end, and their surefootedness can have you relax and have faith in your mount. Besides this, the breed is quite intelligent and eager to please. Whether a novice or a veteran on the trail, you can expect your mount to react well to your commands and to understand the rules of the game. Slender, muscular, hardy, and spirited, these horses truly belong in the great outdoors!

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#4 Friesian Horse

Of course, when you expect to tackle the rugged wilderness trails with all their unexpected twists and turns and rough patches, you want your mount to be able to endure all of it. And the mount to do that is definitely the powerful Friesian horse. Hailing from Friesland in Europe, these horses are admired for their absolute power, great stature, muscular bodies, and fabulous beauty. Bred in ages past for warfare and heavy fieldwork, they have evolved into horses of pure power. And that power comes in handy on the toughest outdoor trails. Surefooted and strong, the Friesian won’t have issues dealing with various terrains. And thanks to their size, you will feel comfy in the saddle, even for hours on end. Experienced trail riders know how crucial all this is. And even novices can benefit from this breed – they are smart, relatively easy to handle and respond well to commands.

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#5 Irish Cob

Similar to the Friesian – but certainly not the same – is the Irish Cob, also known as the Gypsy Vanner. An old Irish breed, it was developed over ages to excel in challenging heavy fieldwork and for pulling the heavy gypsy caravans. This resulted in a large, stocky, muscular, and very powerful breed, with a lot of endurance and a balanced gait. Nowadays, they are known for their calm and peaceful demeanor, their intelligence, and their eagerness to please. Of course, they won’t have the slightest of issues with the outdoor trails as their large stride and powerful build will tackle the uneven terrain with absolute ease. Whether short or long, any trail ride with an Irish Cob will prove to be nothing short of equine enjoyment. Just make sure that feed is close at hand – those muscles need to be refueled!

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#6 Mustang

Considered a wild breed, the Mustang is a horse that is one with nature, and one of the iconic symbols of America. Renowned for its sheer power and all-around ruggedness, the Mustang can be an exceptional trail mount when properly trained. Luckily, they are not an entirely wild breed and can respond well to training by professionals. Trained Mustangs can excel in a variety of equine activities, but trail riding is something in which they can definitely excel. After all, these horses are in their natural surroundings when in the wild – they are sure-footed over rocky and uneven terrain, and will make short work of any obstacles and in all seasons. The Mustang boasts a slightly coarser coat and is much hardier than some other breeds. All this makes it exceptionally adapted to the outdoors, and an ideal mount for long treks and trails.

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#7 Morgan Horse

We all know that the Morgan Horse is exceptional for racing, barrel riding, and other equine sports. These are lighting fast and agile horses and are amongst the most iconic American breeds. But of course, they are very versatile and adaptable and can be surprisingly fantastic on the trail. After all, the Morgan Horse has its roots in the American Old West, when wandering gunslingers depended on their mounts – and Morgan was a classic choice. So, you can expect a sure-footed and able animal, with great endurance and willingness to go that extra mile. Besides this, they are very smart and pick up new tricks and lessons surprisingly quickly. However, a Morgan Horse might not be best suited for a novice rider. They are powerful and able animals, best suited for those who are seasoned in the saddle. After all, an able mount needs an able rider in order to shine.

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#8 Australian Stock Horse

Any equine breed that was bred in Australia has to be inherently hardy. It is a tough land, and the Australian Stock horse evolved to deal with the harsh climate and terrain. This is a truly balanced breed, boasting even and tempered traits, and great reliability. What is more, this breed is famed for its sure-footed gait, the ideal thing for trail riding. They are smart, agile, reliable, and enduring, and are overall a very good breed for the outdoors. Somewhat placid and obedient, they are hardy animals who are willing to work long and hard. What is especially important is their resilient nature – if they can tackle the harsh Australian climate, they won’t even flinch in the more temperate climates of North America.

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#9 Icelandic Horse

If we want to talk about a hardy horse, we need to look no further than Iceland. This remote nation is known for its rugged terrains and frigid climate, and the animals that were bred there had to adapt to these conditions in order to survive. The Icelandic horse is stocky and has coarse hairs, and is slightly smaller than the usual horse breed. But these traits are its strengths - the breed is perfect for outdoor trail riding, where their balance and even gait will definitely get you that extra mile. Of course, Icelandic horses are slightly less common on the market and finding one could be a bit challenging. But if you do manage this, you are bound to have a reliable, versatile, and surprisingly fast and agile breed. Don’t let their cute looks fool you!

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#10 Missouri Fox Trotter

Bred in the ruggedness of the Ozark Mountains, the Missouri Fox Trotter is naturally evolved to tackle the rugged trails and to endure the elements. Originally a hunting horse, this breed is well known for its comfortable and smooth gait, known as the Fox Trot. This gait was developed over generations, specifically with comfort in mind. So, if you plan on spending long hours in the saddle as you tackle your next designated trail, the Missouri Fox Trotter will definitely bear you with absolute comfort. Besides this, the breed is quite sure-footed on rugged terrain and possesses good endurance and agility. All in all, this is a quite versatile breed and one that you can depend on in the toughest of times.

What Are the Most Important Traits of Trail Riding?

It goes without saying that not all horse breeds are capable of enduring trail riding. This activity can be quite challenging for both the horse and the rider, and that is why you need to choose your mount with care. Trail riding can happen in a variety of environments and in different seasons, and each one can bear new and unexpected threats. Rocky and uneven mountain paths, snow-covered ice patches, dense forests, desert heat, and faint trails – the threats are many. In many ways, that is the thrill and the fun of trail riding, but it is nonetheless something to take seriously. If you want to be sure that you have the right mount for the next trail, make sure that they excel in the following traits.

Endurance

A horse needs to be hardy and enduring in order to thrive in the outdoors. If your trail crosses a wild country, you can never be 100% sure when the rain will come, or strong winds, snow, blizzards, or storms. It is because of this that a horse needs to be hardy and strong. Of course, endurance is also important for the overall trail journey. Stamina is the key to it all – a horse will have to endure hours of journeying across rugged terrain: not all breeds are capable of this.

Gait

Of course, there is always the matter of your comfort. A rider is equally as important as the mount: if you are to endure hours of riding, you will have to be comfortable. Otherwise, you can get sores, a stiff back, and all sorts of pains and discomforts. The key to comfort on the trail is the horse’s gait. Some breeds are simply not meant for leisure riding, while others were bred with just that in mind. Such breeds have a smooth, comfy gait that makes for subtle riding even across rugged terrain. When you spend hours in the saddle – this can make a major difference in the experience.

Surefootedness

If the horse is to tackle the rugged terrains of the great outdoors, it cannot falter at any point. One wrong step and they can get injured and throw you out from the saddle. A horse will thus have to be sure-footed in all terrains. This means that they will be confident, with a balanced stride. The hardiest of horse breeds are the most sure-footed – the Icelandic Horse, the Friesians, Clydesdales, Morgans, and many others. Those breeds that are bred for other activities, such as dressage or exhibitions, could be much less stable on rough terrain.

Angela Vuckovic

A proud mama to seven dogs and ten cats, Angela spends her days writing for her fellow pet parents and pampering her furballs, all of whom are rescues. When she's not gushing over her adorable cats or playing with her dogs, she can be found curled up with a good fantasy book.

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Morab Horse

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The rivalry between cats and dogs is an age-old thing. Many pet owners are divided in their affections, as some adore kitties, but others are strictly doggo lovers. And this rivalry poses an intriguing question – could there be a difference between cats and dogs? While both are cuddly and loveable, they are inevitably different. So, could it be possible that  dogs are smarter than cats, or vice versa? This is a popular question in the scientific world, and many tried answering it. Let’s see what they came up with.Are Dogs Smarter than Cats? For ages, the debate on the rivalry between cats and dogs has been ongoing. Ultimately, however, it all depends on how you define “smart”. Dogs are often loved for their obedience, their ability to be trained and follow commands, their unwavering loyalty, and their excellent guardian traits. Cats, on the other hand, are known for their independence, their adaptability and problem-solving skills, their free and restless spirit, and their cuddly nature. So, as we can see, while generally different in personalities, both of these animals possess certain cognitive skills – but is one smarter than the other?Recent studies have revealed that both dogs and cats possess unique cognitive abilities suited to their respective lifestyles and evolutionary histories. Meaning, they are completely different animals. Dogs, for example, originated from domesticated canines, far, far back in history. They were bred over thousands of years to work alongside humans, protect flocks, help with hunting, and guard homes. This, in turn, has likely influenced their ability to understand and communicate with us, and to be so devoted as pets. But cats are different. In stark contrast to doggos, cats have retained more of their wild instincts, allowing them to thrive in a variety of environments and situations.All of this means that you can’t really compare the intelligence of a cat and that of a dog. It’s like comparing apples and oranges – it just doesn’t go. Each animal excels in different areas and possesses different strengths. It's more accurate to appreciate the unique qualities of each species rather than trying to determine which one is "smarter."But even so, scientists tried to reach a decisive conclusion. They studied both cats and dogs and ultimately reached an answer - at least, scientifically speaking. Their research shows that dogs are smarter than cats! Some of you might find this answer surprising but don’t raise a revolt just yet. Cats are super intelligent even so. It’s just that they are likely not as smart as some dogs are. The secret is in “smartness” itself. Dogs are intelligent in their own way. They are generally more reliant on humans for problem-solving tasks, but they are adept at learning from observation and experience. They can also be trained to perform a wide range of tasks, from simple tricks to complex behaviors, such as guiding the visually impaired or detecting explosives. Cats, however, are natural hunters and possess excellent problem-solving skills. They are known for their agility, stealth, and ability to strategize when stalking their prey. In a domestic setting, cats demonstrate problem-solving abilities when navigating obstacles, finding hiding spots, and even manipulating objects to access food or toys. So, both of them have different positive traits and different types of intelligence. But it could be that dogs, with their ability to learn and obey commands, are just a tad bit smarter.

What Are the Benefits of Dog Massage?

Everyone likes a nice, relaxing massage – no doubt about it. It helps us unwind, soothes sore muscles, and can promote the release of “happy hormones” such as endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine. So why shouldn’t our four-legged friends enjoy the same perks as we do? That’s right, dogs can enjoy getting a massage as well, and can also provide a range of benefits for our four-legged besties, the same as it does for us.What Are the Benefits of Dog Massage?Canine massage can offer several benefits to dogs, both physically and emotionally. Just like us, our dogs can be tired, sore, grumpy, or sad. And a good massage can really help them shake it off and feel more at ease and relaxed. But people often wonder if there are any additional benefits for dogs who enjoy a massage – apart from it feeling nice, that is. And the answer is yes! Here are just some of the advantages they get from a massage:Stress and Tension Relief:A nice soothing massage can help relax tense muscles and reduce stress in dogs. This is especially beneficial for dogs that may be anxious or nervous.Better Circulation:Massage can enhance blood circulation, promoting better oxygen and nutrient delivery to cells and tissues. Improved circulation can aid in the healing process and contribute to overall well-being.Pain Relief:Massaging sore or tight muscles can help alleviate pain and discomfort. This is particularly relevant for dogs with arthritis, hip dysplasia, or other musculoskeletal issues.Better Flexibility and Range of Motion:Regular massage may enhance a dog's flexibility and improve their range of motion. If you have a senior dog or a dog recovering from injuries, a massage can be of great help with improving their overall mobility.Better Joint Health:Massage can contribute to the health of joints by promoting synovial fluid production, which lubricates and nourishes the joints. Senior dogs can benefit from regular massages either to treat existing joint issues or to prevent them in the first place.  Pet-Owner Bonding:Massage provides an opportunity for bonding between the dog and their owner and can improve and strengthen your relationship. It can also help with socialization, especially for dogs that may be timid or have trust issues as it will help them relax when petted.A Stronger Immune System:Some experts suggest that massage may stimulate the lymphatic system, potentially boosting the immune system's function in dogs. While there aren’t any extensive studies done that could confirm this, it would be great if a “side effect” of canine massage is better overall health!Spotting Health Issues:Through massage, you may identify lumps, bumps, or other abnormalities that may require veterinary attention. Regular massage can help in the early detection of potential health issues on time to provide the right treatment.Postoperative Recovery:Dogs recovering from surgery may benefit from gentle massage to reduce swelling, alleviate pain, and aid in the healing process. Just don’t apply too much pressure or any pressure on the incision site – and be sure to get your vet’s approval (and possible instructions) before doing anything on your own,It's important to note that while a dog massage can be beneficial, it should not be used as a substitute for veterinary care or, in some cases, without the go-ahead from your pet’s vet. Before starting any massage regimen, it's advisable to consult with a veterinarian or a professional canine massage therapist, especially if your dog has pre-existing health conditions. Additionally, learning proper massage techniques is crucial to ensure that you are providing a safe and effective experience for your dog.

What Are the Requirements for Flying with a Dog?

While traveling with your pet can be challenging, it doesn’t have to be. Even though some  airlines can be a bit finicky about their rules and regulations, you can fly with your pet in tow safely and comfortably, as long as you know their requirements and follow them to the letter.Having your choice of airlines to travel with your dog as your companion, broadens your options when it comes to travel destinations and can eliminate a lot of usual travel-related stress factors in the process. In fact, flying your pet together with you can be simple, straightforward, and hassle-free! As long as you stick to the rules, that is. So, without further ado, what are the requirements for flying with a dog? Are there any universal practices you should know or does it really depend from company to company? Here’s everything you should know before packing your bags.What Are the Requirements for Flying with a Dog?Of course, it goes without saying that you can’t just appear with your pet at the check-in gate and fly away! There are many important rules involved, mainly in order to keep your pet safe, to comply with specific airline regulations, the rules of other countries, and the comfort of other passengers as well. It is also important to remember that different airlines might have different rules. It is crucial that you contact your desired airline beforehand, checking about any special regulations that they require. Still, there are some universal criteria that any pet will have to meet in order to fly on a plane.One of the foremost requirements that will allow your pet to fly on a plane is a health certificate. This is a special document that can be issued by your veterinarian after a thorough physical examination. It guarantees that your doggo is healthy, has no diseases, and has all the required vaccinations that are up to date. And, of course, this certificate needs to be recent. They are valid for only about 30 days, so make sure to do it in time. Some airlines also require that your pet be microchipped. This is advisable for all pet owners regardless of travel or not. The  microchip allows for quick and simple identification in case your pet gets lost and also serves as a sort of doggo credential. Just make sure that all the information stored on the chip is up-to-date!

What Is Scent Enrichment for Cats?

Your cat has a powerful sense of smell that she uses to navigate her surroundings and make decisions, so it’s important to consider your kitty when using scented products around the house and maintaining a litter box that doesn’t have offensive odors.In addition to considering the fragrances that can be off-putting to your kitty, you can also enrich your cat’s environment and make her daily life more fun with scent. Below are some tips on how to use scent enrichment to keep your furbaby happy.

It's a Match! Winnipeg Rescue Intro's Doggie Dates

Prospective owners can sweep their prospective partner away for the night, a weekend, or a week, before deciding to commit.

Pet Obesity Study Shows Promise and Surprising Links With Humans

If you thought that your chubby doggo is incredibly cute, you might want to consider what’s hiding behind that adorable exterior.  Pet obesity is a real thing, and it is a major health hazard that many dogs experience in their lifetime. And, sadly, a lot of it is connected to improper care and diet. To show us just how big of a problem it has become, the latest study from the  Association for Pet Obesity Prevention revealed that in the U.S. alone, around 59% of dogs and 61% of cats were overweight or obese! However, recently conducted research shows that there might be a way to battle the obesity pandemic – with certain strains of probiotics that can help curb pet obesity, especially when dogs are in question. A research team from Seoul National University's Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture and Life Science, conducted a study investigating the effects of probiotics on canine obesity. They discovered two strains that appeared to have weight-reducing properties in obese dogs. To assess the probiotic potential of these strains, the researchers employed a lifespan analysis using Caenorhabditis elegans, a genetic model known for its simplicity in genetic manipulation and shorter lifespan compared to other animal models. Their findings were detailed in a  paper published in the Microbiology Spectrum journal.Thanks to the positive outcome of this research, a new hope was discovered for doggos struggling with excess weight. The use of Caenorhabditis Elegans offers “interventions aimed at enhancing metabolic health in various mammals”, according to the research team. What is more, the effects could be applied to cats, humans, and other mammals, since C. Elegans “serves as a human homolog model”. In general, this whole study could prove to be beneficial to several animal species, as well as humans, making its significance multifold. However, the exact way that bacteria affects weight is not entirely understood. Even though some studies show that certain strains will slow weight gain, researchers were still unable to find a connection between bacteria and weight.Nevertheless, the study is proving to be a major leap forward when pet obesity is considered. There is plenty of potential in this study, and further efforts could change the way dog obesity is experienced – or possibly even root it out for good! 

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