Anglo-Arabian

Looks how to spot one

sport horse

The Anglo-Arabian is a sturdy, elegant riding horse with a refined head that shows its Arabian heritage, a deep chest, round hindquarters, prominent withers and long legs. It stands between 15.2 and 16.3 hands tall, taller than a pure Arabian but slightly shorter than a Thoroughbred.41

Personality what they are like

Anglo-Arabians are alert, responsive and energetic rather than dull or heavy-going. They are sensitive and intelligent, often forming a strong bond with one rider. They do best with consistent handling, clear routines and a rider who appreciates a horse that notices its surroundings and learns quickly. Their temperament can vary with bloodlines and training, but they are generally good-natured and trustworthy.213

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Anglo-Arabians need regular movement and a job to do. Many require more than occasional weekend riding to stay mentally settled and physically comfortable. Daily turnout is valuable, and they benefit from a structured programme that mixes conditioning, skill work and lighter recovery days. They often excel when exercise is consistent rather than intense but sporadic.23

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Daily coat and hoof care are essential, as with all horse breeds, to detect wounds or diseases quickly. Regular farrier visits for hoof trimming and balancing help prevent musculoskeletal problems. Yearly dental exams with teeth floating maintain tooth balance, and a vet-guided deworming plan protects against internal parasites.13

Home where they are happiest

Anglo-Arabians are happiest in an open stable or box stable with plenty of opportunity for movement and exercise, such as grazing areas. Daily turnout is important to reduce stress, support musculoskeletal health and lower the risk of gastric ulcers, colic and stereotypic behaviours. They are robust and adapt well to various climates.13

Food basics what goes in the bowl

A forage-first diet built around hay or pasture is best. For a healthy adult horse, total dry matter intake should be around 2% to 2.5% of body weight per day, with at least half coming from forage. Some Anglo-Arabians maintain weight well on forage plus a ration balancer, while those in heavier work may need additional concentrate or fat-based calories. Salt and free-choice clean water are essential.23

Company who they like around

Anglo-Arabians are sociable and balanced. They do best with a permanent attachment figure and do not tolerate a regular change of rider well. Daily turnout with other horses provides essential socialisation. Empathetic training is particularly important for these sensitive animals.13

The story where it all began

The Anglo-Arabian breed was created in France in the early 19th century, when M. de Bonneval, director of the main French stud farm Pompadour, crossed Arabian stallions with English Thoroughbred mares. The aim was to combine the bravery, endurance and undemanding nature of the Arabian with the power and speed of the Thoroughbred, producing an ideal cavalry horse. The first French stud book was published in 1823, making the Anglo-Arabian the oldest sport horse recorded in a stud book in France. After World War I, breeding shifted from cavalry to versatile sport horses for eventing, dressage, jumping and racing. Today the breed is common in many European countries, with major populations in France and Italy.15

Recognised by the official bits

Arabian Horse Association (AHA)

Accepts any colour and height; requires photos of colouring for registration4