落基山小型马

落基山小型马（The Rocky Mountain Horse）可能是被承认的最新的品种，1986年才开始正式登记注册的落基山小型马却因为其精致而出色的外貌，平稳问发展到如今广为人知的地位。


可能是被承认的最新品种。落基山小型马开发于美国肯塔基州，虽叫落基山，但其实来源于阿巴拉契亚山脉。截止2005年已有约12000登记注册。



受推崇的毛色，是巧克力色的被毛，鬃毛是淡金色或亚麻色。这种独特的毛色在其他品种上非常少见，也是其迷人的地方之一。腿部的白色是可以接受的，但不应超过膝。



他们体高在14.2-16H(147-163厘米)之间，在PONY（小型马）体高限制的上下不等，所以仍被称为HORSE（马），但翻译成小型马。




落基山小型马其良好的抗寒性和适应于山地道路的特点被爱好者称赞，而他们良好的品质和极具亲和力的性格也让其出现更多展示和互动场合。



漂亮的外表，别具一格的毛色，然而如此精致的外表却并不是“花瓶”，他们在粗糙山地可以平稳行进，速度达到11公里/小时，平地可以达到25公里/小时。



相关资料：

起源：
Raina for Equitrekking: What are the origins of the Rocky Mountain Horse?

Ron Hatcher: The Rocky Mountain Horse originated in the mountains of eastern Kentucky. The story is the foundation sire was brought in the late nineteenth century by a traveler returning to his native Virginia. He traded the horse in order to acquire the funds and supplies necessary to get home. As a result, the Rocky Mountain Horse we presently know evolved.



特点：
Equitrekking: What are the general conformation characteristics of the Rocky Mountain Horse?

Ron Hatcher: The Rocky ranges from 14.2 to 16 hands. They can be any solid color with limited white on the face and below the hocks. These horses are short backed with a wide chest and a well-set neck. Rocky Mountain Horses also have properly angled rear feet, as they are gaited horses. They have “teacup” chins and “foxed” ears.



Equitrekking: What makes the Rocky Mountain Horse unique as a breed?

Ron Hatcher: The Rocky is a naturally gaited, solid color, medium sized horse, known for its friendliness and willingness to please. They are cold blooded and came from an environment requiring durability. The result is a surprisingly stylish, easy keeper with heart.



发展：
Equitrekking: How has the Rocky Mountain Horse been used and ridden throughout history?

Ron Hatcher: The horse was originally utilized as a versatile farm animal. They could plow or pull wagons during the week, and then be ridden under saddle to take their owners to town on Saturdays. They safely pulled the family buggy to church on Sundays. This history lends itself to the Rocky motto of “One Horse for all Occasions." Most Rocky owners are trail riders. Rockies are popular for endurance riding and are also seen on the show circuit. The Rocky Mountain Horses have been recognized as a breed since 1986.



Equitrekking: What are some fun facts people may not know about Rocky Mountain Horses?

Ron Hatcher: Today there are approximately 20,000 of these unique horses in the world. Half of them reside in Kentucky, even though they are owned throughout the world. The Rocky Mountain Horse Association wants to spread the word among the equine world. This horse merits consideration. The smooth and lateral four-beat gait not only allows the horse to cover distance without tiring, but is also comfortable for the rider. Baby Boomers are you listening?