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The versatile, dependable, easy-gaited
breed for riders of all ages.
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Developed from horses in the Ozarks, the breed is characterized by a
gentle disposition and an easy, fluid, 4-beat diagonal gait. These
horses were
depended upon for their surefootedness in this mountainous region
and their
ability to do whatever was needed around the homestead, ranging
from plowing,
hauling logs, and working cattle, while at the same time able
to double as a stylish
buggy horse or riding horse for the family. Whatever the need,
the Missouri Fox
Trotter proved capable and adaptable. Surefooted in mountainous
terrain, gentle
in disposition and smoothness of gait for the comfort of both horse
and rider the
Missouri Fox Trotter Horse Breed motto today is "Every rider's pleasure
horse".
The Missouri Fox Trotting Horse has three natural gaits: the
long and easy-going
flat foot walk, the smooth and comfortable fox trot characteristic
of its name,
and the "rocking horse" canter.
The distinguishing characteristic of the Missouri Fox Trotter is the
fox trot gait.
The horse appears to walk with the front feet while trotting with the hind. This
extremely
surefooted gait gives the rider little jar as the hind feet slide into
place.
The fox trot is a rhythmic gait, and the horse can maintain it for
extended periods
with very little fatigue.
No special shoeing or training is required for these horses to perform
their
gaits and their good disposition and trainability are among their many
desirable
characteristics making them one of the most versatile and loved of
horse breeds
within the equine registries. To ride one is to own one!
