When choosing a horse for a beginner rider, safety should always be the top priority. While no breed is perfect, some have traits that make them more suitable than others. Temperament and experience level should matter more than pedigree when it comes to selecting a beginner-friendly horse. Breeds like Morgans and American Paint Horses are known for their attentiveness and trainability—two important qualities that make them a good choice for new riders.
If you’re looking for a smooth ride, naturally gaited breeds like the Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse and the Missouri Fox Trotter are smooth and tend to have calm, beginner-friendly dispositions. Any horse has the potential to be a trustworthy partner, but some breeds are more consistently known for their reliability. Keep in mind that every horse is an individual—you might find a spirited Morgan or a gentle off-the-track Thoroughbred!
Breed Characteristics
Certain breed characteristics stand out for beginners. Horses that are calm, trainable, and have a smooth ride are ideal. Breeds known for their patience tend to be more forgiving of mistakes, allowing beginners to build confidence. A mature, well-educated, and well-mannered horse will typically be the best choice, as they are more predictable. These traits help ensure a safer, more enjoyable ride, giving new riders the opportunity to learn safely.
Breed Note: We are speaking in generalities with all the breeds below. Not all horses within a specific breed will have the same temperament, health, etc., and of course education from horse to horse varies greatly. Pat says “Horses teach riders and riders teach horses,” so a well developed horse using the partnership side of his brain is much more important for a beginner’s success than breed, color, or appearance. Every horse also has his or her own Horsenality based on Innate Characteristics, Learned Behavior, Environmental Influences and Spirit Level. To learn more, visit Parelli Horseanality. When looking for a horse, make sure to look at them as an individual to gauge if they are a good fit for you, your goals, and your current skill level.
1. American Quarter Horse
The American Quarter Horse is one of the most popular breeds and is very versatile. Quarter horses are used in English and Western and are very popular trail riding horses. Quarter horses often make great beginner horses because of their even temperament, versatility, and reliability. However, some can be energetic.
2. American Paint Horse
Paint horses have a strong mix of American Quarter Horse in their pedigree. They typically have a calm, easygoing temperament and tend to do well with children and young riders. Their friendly nature makes them easy to train and handle.
3. Morgan
The Morgan is an excellent choice for a family horse because they are good for beginner and experienced riders. These horses are typically attentive and want to please their riders. For beginning riders, they are pretty forgiving. Experienced riders will also enjoy the responsiveness of Morgans. They are also quite stoic and easy keepers.
4. Thoroughbred
Thoroughbreds might be too much for some beginners, but don't discount them entirely. Most retired racers will have too much "go" for a beginner without extensive training after they retire from the track. However, non-raced Thoroughbreds can be quiet and steady. These horses can be used in English, Western, Jumping, and more.
5. Missouri Fox Trotter Horse
The Missouri Fox Trotter horse is a naturally gaited breed and very comfortable to ride. Their unique gait is called a foxtrot, which is an ambling gait with one foot always on the ground. This horse has a friendly, calm temperament and is an excellent choice for families.
6. Icelandic Horse
Icelandic horses are another gaited breed. They are sure-footed, long-lived, and quite stoic. They are descendants of Shetland ponies and can live up to 40 years. Their short, stocky stature makes them feel approachable for new or fearful riders. Their unique gait is called a tolt, and it looks like a sped-up walk. Icelandic horses can cover a lot of ground very quickly at the tolt.
7. Norwegian Fjord
The Norwegian Fjord is known for being a relaxed and solid partner. Norwegian Fjords are usually under 14 hands and have a stocky build. Their calm demeanor makes them great for trail riding. They respond to their riders and can have a lot of "go" or a lot of "slow" depending on who is riding.
8. Appaloosa
Appaloosas are known for their distinct spotted coats, which can feature a variety of patterns, including blanket, leopard, and snowflake. They are prized for their intelligence, gentle temperament, and strong bond with their riders, making them excellent horses for beginners. Appaloosas are typically calm and willing to learn, which helps build a rider’s confidence.
9. Clydesdale
Clydesdales have a quiet demeanor and gentle nature. These gentle giants tend to be forgiving of a beginner’s mistakes. The biggest issue with Clydesdales is their size. They can be intimidating for some riders and difficult to mount. Fitting tack can also be a challenge.
10. Draft Crossbreeds
Draft crossbreeds are a nice option for beginners seeking a draft demeanor without the size. Clydesdales, Shires, and Percherons are often crossed with thoroughbreds, quarter horses, and paints to create a "sport horse." These crossbreeds are easier for beginners to mount and ride. They are also a bit more versatile than full-blooded drafts.
11. Welsh Cob
Welsh Cobs are strong, versatile ponies known for their sturdy build, intelligence, and friendly temperament. They have a natural willingness to work and are highly trainable, making them an excellent choice for beginner riders. Their steady and reliable nature helps boost rider confidence, while their agility and endurance allow them to excel in various disciplines, from trail riding to jumping and dressage. Welsh Cobs are also known for their comfortable gaits and surefootedness, making them a dependable and enjoyable ride for children and adults.
12. Tennessee Walking Horse
Tennessee Walking Horses are known for their smooth, natural gaits, gentle temperament, and willingness to please. Their unique gait is a "running walk," which provides a comfortable and effortless ride, reducing strain on the rider and allowing for longer periods in the saddle. This gait makes them a great choice for riders with back and hip issues. Many beginner and experienced riders choose Tennessee Walking horses for trail and endurance riding because they are comfortable to ride for long distances.
