The Appendix Horse

The Appendix is a breed of horse that is often seenQuarter horses in order to keep the Quarter horse
participating in many different equestrian disciplines. Thebloodline as pure as possible. This “X” is placed
breed had began as the mixing of two very differentin front of the Appendix horses name. It is still a
breeds of horses. Today, this breed is seen, andpractice being used today. Some breeders, favor the
accounted for, as a breed all in itself. The appendixearlier style of Quarter horse. The Association has
horse has a large amount of thoroughbred in itscreated several separate organizations to promote
bloodline. The use of the very name, of the breed,and register "Foundation" Quarter Horses. A
"appendix," was first used in the thoroughbred stud“Foundation” Quarter Horse is a sign of pure
book during the time of the revolutionary war. Manyblood lines that date back to an earlier time.
cold blooded horses who were bred to thoroughbredIf you enjoy eventing, such as barrel racing, trail riding,
went under the title of "Appendix." During this time, ithunter/jumper, dressage, cutting, ranch work or horse
was acceptable for thoroughbreds to be breed toracing, then the Appendix should be considered when
other breeds of horses and still be registered with thepurchasing a horse. The Appendix is very athletic.
Jockey Club.Some appendix horses can appear to be full blooded
In the 1950's, the American Quarter Horse Associationquarter horses, while others may appear to be
came to the scene. They were small, short built, withthoroughbred. This leaves the buyer with many
muscular hips. Their bloodlines were mainly composedchoices. Like many other breeds, the appendix has a
of cold blooded horses. The American Quarter Horsewide arrange of conformation differences from horse
Association chose to use an "X" to classify theto horse. The breed also has many different colors
registered appendix horses from the full bloodedand markings that are acceptable.