Raising An Arabian Horse

Taking care of an Arabian horse requires understanding their unique physiology, temperament, and historical background. One of the oldest and most influential horse breeds, Arabians are known for their intelligence, endurance, striking beauty (dished face, high tail carriage), and deep bond with humans. While they share core equine needs with other breeds, their refined build and sensitive nature call for tailored care.

1. Understand the Arabian Horse

Origin: Desert-bred in the Arabian Peninsula—evolved for endurance, heat tolerance, and efficiency.
Size: Typically 14.1–15.1 hands; lightweight (800–1,000 lbs).
Temperament: Intelligent, alert, people-oriented—but can be highly sensitive and reactive to harsh handling.
Lifespan: 25–30+ years (often longer than average).
Uses: Endurance riding, show, pleasure riding, trail, and competitive disciplines.

💡 Arabians thrive on partnership, not dominance. Patience and consistency build trust.

2. Nutrition: Quality Over Quantity

Arabians are easy keepers—they evolved to survive on sparse desert forage. Overfeeding is a major risk.

Feeding Guidelines:

Forage: 1.5–2% of body weight in good-quality grass hay (e.g., timothy or orchard grass).
- Avoid rich alfalfa unless under veterinary guidance (can cause excitability or kidney stones).
Grain: Only if needed (e.g., hard keepers, performance horses). Choose low-starch, high-fat formulas.
Water: Clean, fresh water always available—Arabians drink well but can be picky about dirty troughs.
Salt & Minerals: Provide loose salt and a balanced trace mineral supplement (many Arabians need extra selenium and vitamin E).
Watch for: Obesity, tying-up (PSSM)—though rarer than in drafts, some lines are prone.

🚫 Never feed large meals—split into 2–3 portions to prevent colic.

3. Shelter & Turnout

Shelter: A 3-sided run-in shed (12' x 12' minimum) with good ventilation.
Stalls: Only for short-term use (e.g., illness, grooming). Arabians need daily turnout—they’re bred for movement.
Pasture: 1–2 acres per horse. Provide shade in hot climates (Arabians tolerate heat but not sunburn on pink skin!).
Fencing: Standard horse-safe fencing (wood, vinyl, or electric tape). Arabians are clever—ensure latches are secure!

✅ Arabians often do best in small herds—they form strong social bonds.

4. Grooming & Coat Care

Short coat: Naturally sleek—regular brushing removes dust and distributes oils.
Mane & tail: Fine and silky—detangle gently with a wide-tooth comb; avoid over-washing.
Skin sensitivity: Prone to rain rot or sunburn (especially under white markings). Use fly sheets and zinc-based sunscreen if needed.
Hooves: Keep clean and dry; trim every 6–8 weeks. Arabians generally have strong hooves but can be prone to thrush in wet conditions.

5. Health & Wellness

Vaccinations & deworming: Follow standard equine protocols, tailored to your region.
Dental care: Float teeth annually—Arabians have small mouths and can develop sharp points quickly.
Common concerns:
- Cerebellar Abiotrophy (CA): Genetic neurological disorder (test breeding stock).
- Lavender Foal Syndrome (LFS): Rare but fatal—DNA testing available.
- Gastric ulcers: Sensitive stomachs—minimize stress, provide constant forage.
Weight monitoring: Run your hands over ribs—should feel but not see them. Watch for a “ewe neck” or cresty neck (signs of metabolic imbalance).

6. Exercise & Mental Stimulation

Daily movement: Essential! Arabians were bred to cover long distances—boredom leads to anxiety or vices.
Endurance mindset: They excel with consistent, varied work—trail rides, groundwork, liberty training.
Avoid monotony: Repetitive arena work frustrates them. Mix in hacking, obstacles, or new environments.
Mental connection: They bond deeply—spend time grooming, hand-grazing, or just being present.

🐴 “An Arabian doesn’t just carry you—they read you.”

7. Training Approach

Start with trust: Use clear, calm cues. Harsh methods backfire—they shut down or become reactive.
Short, engaging sessions: Their intelligence means they learn fast but get bored quickly.
Voice commands: Many respond well to spoken cues (a desert tradition).
Positive reinforcement: Clicker training or gentle praise works wonders.

8. Special Considerations

Cold weather: Their fine coat offers less insulation—provide blanketing in freezing, wet conditions.
Fly management: Sensitive skin—use fly masks, sprays, and fans in summer.
Trailering: Most adapt well, but ensure good ventilation—they’re prone to respiratory irritation.

9. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overfeeding grain “to keep weight on”
Isolating them from other horses
Using heavy-handed training methods
Ignoring subtle signs of stress (pinned ears, tail swishing, grinding teeth)

Arabian horses are not just beautiful—they’re thinking, feeling partners with a 5,000-year legacy of human companionship. Treat them with respect, consistency, and empathy, and they’ll reward you with loyalty, brilliance, and heart.

“Give me an Arabian, and I’ll ride to the ends of the earth.” — Bedouin Proverb

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