What is a gaited horse?

A gaited horse is a horse that has been selectively bred and trained to perform an extra smooth and natural four-beat gait, in addition to the standard walk, trot, and canter/gallop. Gaited horses are known for their lateral gaits, which are smoother and more comfortable for the rider compared to the traditional trot.

Some common gaited horse breeds include the Tennessee Walking Horse, Missouri Fox Trotter, Paso Fino, Icelandic Horse, Peruvian Paso, and gaited Morgan. These breeds are known for their smooth gaits, high head carriage, and elegant movements.

Gaited horses are popular choices for pleasure riding, trail riding, and endurance riding due to their smooth gaits and comfortable ride. They are also used in various disciplines such as dressage, western pleasure, and competitive trail riding.

Training a gaited horse to perform a smooth gait requires patience, consistency, and proper training techniques. Gaited horses should be ridden in a relaxed and collected manner to encourage them to maintain their natural gaits.

Overall, gaited horses are prized for their smooth and comfortable gaits, making them a popular choice for riders who enjoy long hours in the saddle.