Mike Clinton
Introduction
Arabian horses are known for their elegance, beauty, and endurance. Two popular types of Arabian horses are the purebred Arabian and the Arabian Friesian. Purebred Arabians are one of the oldest and most pure horse breeds in the world, while the Arabian Friesian is a newer breed resulting from crossbreeding between Arabian and Friesian horses.
Breed Characteristics
One of the main physical differences between purebred Arabians and Arabian Friesians is their size. Purebred Arabians are typically smaller, standing between 14 and 15 hands high, while Arabian Friesians are often taller, standing at around 16 hands high. Purebred Arabians have a more refined head, a high-set tail, and a dished profile, while Arabian Friesians have a straighter profile, a fuller tail, and a more muscular body.
Both breeds share some physical characteristics, such as a high-set neck, a deep chest, and large nostrils that allow for efficient breathing. They also have similar color patterns, with both breeds commonly seen in bay, chestnut, and black.
Bloodline and Pedigree
Purebred Arabians have an incredibly pure bloodline, with their ancestry tracing back to the Arabian Peninsula. Arabian Friesians, on the other hand, are a cross between Arabian and Friesian horses, with their bloodlines tracing back to both breeds.
Pedigree is an important factor when it comes to both breeds, as it can impact the horse’s ability to perform certain tasks. Both breeds are highly regarded for their pedigrees, with purebred Arabians often having a long lineage of successful racehorses, and Arabian Friesians being bred for dressage and driving.
Origin
The Arabian Friesian is a newer breed, developed in the Netherlands in the late 20th century. The breed was created to combine the beauty, agility, and endurance of the Arabian with the strength and power of the Friesian horse.
Purebred Arabians, on the other hand, have been around for thousands of years, and their breeding has been carefully controlled to maintain their purity and unique characteristics.
Purpose
Both breeds have different primary uses. Purebred Arabians are commonly used for racing, endurance riding, and as show horses. Arabian Friesians, on the other hand, are often used for dressage, driving, and as elegant carriage horses.
Temperament
Both purebred Arabians and Arabian Friesians have a reputation for being intelligent, sensitive, and willing to please their owners. However, purebred Arabians are known for their spirited and high-strung nature, while Arabian Friesians tend to be calmer and more laid-back.
Training
The training methods for both breeds are similar, with positive reinforcement techniques being the most common approach. However, purebred Arabians require a firm and experienced hand due to their high energy and spirited nature, while Arabian Friesians are more forgiving and easy to train.
Health Concerns
Both breeds are generally healthy and have similar health concerns, such as colic, laminitis, and respiratory issues. However, purebred Arabians can be more prone to certain genetic disorders, such as Cerebellar abiotrophy and SCID.
Cost
The cost of purchasing and maintaining these breeds can vary greatly. Purebred Arabians can range from a few thousand dollars to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on their bloodline and pedigree. Arabian Friesians are generally more expensive than purebred Arabians, with prices ranging from $15,000 to $50,000 on average.
Conclusion
Choosing between a purebred Arabian and an Arabian Friesian ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use for the horse. Purebred Arabians are a classic and elegant breed, while Arabian Friesians offer a unique combination of strength and beauty. Both breeds require careful consideration when it comes to their health, training, and pedigree, but can be rewarding companions for those who are willing to put in the time and effort.