The horse is a large animal that has been used for a variety of tasks throughout history. Generally, it can be used both as a form of transportation, and as power source for agricultural implements. The horse, which measures in hands, has a typical height range of 14 to 17 hands, four legs, and a large and powerful frame (Figure1). The horse travels at an average speed of 27 mph, and has an average usable lifespan of 25 years.
Figure 1. Horse
Body
Size and measurement
Horses are measured from the highest point on their whether, to the ground, because this is the most stable, or consistently level, point of their anatomy. They are, as previously mentioned, and measured in hands, which are equal to 4 inches. The exact measure of a horse depends on its size and intended use. Light riding horses range from 14 to 16 hands, while heavy draft horses range from 16 to 18 hands. They generally weigh between 1,540 to 2,200 lbs.
Colors and Markings
The horse is available in a variety of colors and color patterns, though most could be described as falling on the black-brown spectrum. Generally, horses are classified by their coat color, breed and sex, as identifying characteristics.
Movement and Behavior
Speeds
Generally, the speed at which a horse moves is described as a gait. There are four basic gaits, which a rider may choose from walk, which averages about four miles per hour, the trot, which averages about 9.5 mph, the canter, which averages about 13 miles per hour, and gallop which averages 27 miles per hour.
Expression and Behavior
Horses communicate through body language and expressive behaviors. Generally, horses are a herd animal and given to flight, in flight –or- flight scenarios. As such, it should be expected that a horse who is startled and feels threatened will spook and run. Further, horses, when kept in a herd, will avoid sleeping all at the same time, in order to leave at least one member of the herd on guard.
Further, a horse will communicate when it is nervous or displeased before fleeing. A horse that has its ears pinned back, or its nostrils flared, is showing signs of discomfort, and nervousness. Further, a horse who flicks his tail while dilating his nostrils is annoyed and could display aggressive behaviors like stomping or nipping. These behaviors are considered “bad” behaviors and should be trained out of the horse, or discouraged, for rider safety.
Uses
Horses can be used for a great variety of tasks. Post prominently today, however, they are used for spot, for transportation, and for agricultural tasks. In terms of sporting, horses can be used for hunting, racing, and participating in displays of skill. In terms of transportation, a horse can both be ridden, and use to pull a carriage or cart in order to transport both people and goods from one location to another. Finally, in agricultural areas, horses can be used to power agricultural equipment, like plows and harrows, in areas or cultures where more modern technologies are not in use. In all of these cases additional equipment must be purchased for use with the horse, in order properly seat a rider on their back, or attach equipment to the horse for use.
References:
Wright, B. "The Age of a Horse". Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. March 29, 1999. Government of Ontario.
