The Tennessee Walking Horse was created over 100 years ago by early settlers in the Middle Basin of Tennessee, by combining the traits of the Standardbreds, Morgans and Thoroughbreds. The most prominent characteristic of Tennessee Walkers is their "running walk". This gait is inherited and cannot be taught to a horse who does not possess it naturally.
Origins: The Tennessee Walking Horse was developed from Thoroughbreds, Morgans, Standardbreds and Saddlebreds owned by settlers in the 18th century. The Tennessee Walking Horse was intended to be a general purpose horse, and its gaits were developed to ensure a comfortable ride. The Tennessee Walking Horse performs the Flatfoot Walk where the hind legs over stride the front legs, the Running Walk which can achieve a speed of 15 mph and the Canter which has a high rolling motion.
Characteristics: Large head with straight profile, a long powerful neck, sloping shoulders, broad chest, short back and strong hindquarters. The hocks are set well away from the body
Height: 15.0 to 16.0 hands
Color: Black, chestnut, bay, roan - white markings are common
Personality: Docile and willing
Reader's Comments on the Tennessee Walking Horse
SJ Mast
Added on Jan 1st, 2008 I own a Racking horse... they are very similar to the TWH. He is three years old, and he's a beautiful dark bay. He's a little over 16 hh, and he has the most sweet personality. We have had to consistently be firm with him, so he doesn't get the idea that he is the "lead horse", but once he realizes that I am in charge, he's very submissive and sweet. I highly recommend the TW Hor RH breed.
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