10 Best Horse Breeds for Beginners & Families

Getting your first horse is exciting, whether starting a backyard barn or looking for a friendly trail companion. But not all horse breeds are a perfect match for beginners or families. Let’s take a look at the top breeds for new riders and some helpful tips to make your first horse experience successful.

What Makes a Horse Beginner-Friendly?

Choosing your first horse is a big deal, and not just because they’re large animals. The right horse will make learning to ride easier, safer, and a whole lot more fun. That’s why some horse breeds are better suited for beginners than others. Here’s what to look for:

Calm, Easygoing Temperament

Beginner-friendly horses are usually calm, patient, and not easily spooked. You want a horse that won’t panic at a fluttering leaf or a barking dog.

• Look for terms like “bombproof” or “steady” when reading breed descriptions.
• Horses that stay relaxed under pressure give you space to learn and grow without fear.

Willing and Trainable

A horse that listens and wants to please makes everything easier – from mounting and grooming to riding and trail work.

• Some breeds are known for being quick learners.
• Others are more stubborn, which isn’t ideal when starting out.

Size and Strength Compatibility

Not all horses are one-size-fits-all. The right-sized horse helps you feel more in control and less intimidated.

• A pony or a smaller breed might be a better fit if you're a smaller adult or getting a horse for a child.
• Big, powerful horses can be tough to handle, especially if they pull or resist.

Simple Grooming and Health Needs

Some horse breeds require regular trimming, special diets, or lots of brushing, while others are easier to keep.

• Hardy breeds with strong hooves and low-maintenance coats save time and money.
• A horse that’s easy to care for lets you focus more on riding and bonding.

Best Beginner-Friendly Horse Breeds

Here are 10 of the top horse breeds for beginners and families. Each one is known for its friendly nature, manageable size, and versatility, making them great picks for first-time horse owners or kids just getting started.

1. American Quarter Horse

With their calm demeanor, sturdy build, and natural athleticism, American Quarter Horses are one of the most beginner-friendly breeds in the world. They excel in everything from trail riding and ranch work to Western competitions and 4-H programs. Known for their loyalty and gentle disposition, Quarter Horses are an excellent fit for first-time horse owners. Best For: Trail riding, cattle work, recreational riding, and beginner riders of all ages. Physical Characteristics: Muscular and compact build; broad chest; strong, powerful hindquarters; short, refined head with a straight profile; short back and well-defined withers.

Height	★★★★☆	14–16 hands high (hh); medium to large; easy to mount for most adult riders
Weight	★★★★☆	950–1,200 lbs; solid and muscular build; supports various riding styles
Gait	★★★★☆	Smooth, athletic walk, trot, and lope
Temperament	★★★★★	Calm, even-tempered, and very forgiving
Trainability	★★★★★	Highly responsive and eager to please; learns quickly
Maintenance	★★★★☆	Generally hardy with minimal grooming needs
Life Expectancy	20+ years	Long-lived with proper care

2. Morgan Horse

Morgans are known for their friendly nature, stamina, and all-purpose ability. They bond closely with their riders and adapt well to various disciplines, from pleasure riding to small-scale farm work. They’re alert but not spooky, which makes them a solid choice for families and newer riders. Best For: Recreational riding, light farm work, driving, and youth riders. Physical Characteristics: Compact, upright build; arched neck; expressive eyes; strong legs and back; well-muscled body.

Height	★★★★☆	14–15.2 hh; versatile size for both teens and adults
Weight	★★★★☆	900–1,100 lbs; balanced frame; not too large or heavy
Gait	★★★★☆	Smooth trot; energetic but controlled movement
Temperament	★★★★★	Kind, people-oriented, and steady
Trainability	★★★★★	Quick learners; respond well to voice and body cues
Maintenance	★★★★☆	Easy keepers with good hooves and overall hardiness
Life Expectancy	25+ years	Long-lived and often active into senior years

3. Paint Horse

With a mix of Quarter Horse personality and eye-catching color, Paint Horses are as calm and trainable as they are pretty. Their easygoing nature makes them ideal for families, and they often excel in both Western and English riding. Best For: Recreational riding, 4-H, Western shows, and beginner-friendly lessons. Physical Characteristics: Muscular with wide-set eyes, short back, and distinctive coat patterns (tobiano, overo, or tovero).

Height	★★★★☆	14.2–16 hh; comfortable for most adult and teen riders
Weight	★★★★☆	950–1,200 lbs; similar build to Quarter Horses
Gait	★★★★☆	Comfortable, steady pace with good balance
Temperament	★★★★★	Docile, friendly, and family-friendly
Trainability	★★★★★	Willing learners; easily form rider bonds
Maintenance	★★★★☆	Hardy with minimal health concerns
Life Expectancy	20+ years	Good longevity with regular care

4. Tennessee Walker

Tennessee Walkers are known for their ultra-smooth gait and relaxed attitude. Their signature running walk makes them a favorite for trail riders, and their calm nature helps new riders feel confident in the saddle. Best For: Trail riding, casual riding, and riders who prefer a smooth ride. Physical Characteristics: Sloped shoulders; long neck; strong back; elegant, high-stepping gait.

Height	★★★★☆	15–17 hh; taller than average; still manageable due to calmness
Weight	★★★★☆	900–1,200 lbs; lean and graceful but strong
Gait	★★★★★	Exceptionally smooth four-beat gait
Temperament	★★★★★	Gentle, relaxed, and tolerant
Trainability	★★★★☆	Good-natured and obedient
Maintenance	★★★★☆	Generally healthy and low-fuss
Life Expectancy	25+ years	Long-lived, dependable companions with regular care

5. Haflinger

Don’t let their pony-like size fool you. Haflingers are strong, smart, and surprisingly versatile. Their calm, steady personality and smaller stature make them great for beginners, especially kids or smaller adults. Best For: Children, light riding, driving, and small-scale farm work. Physical Characteristics: Compact and stocky; flaxen mane and tail; chestnut coat; kind eyes and expressive face.

Height	★★★☆☆	13.2–15 hh; smaller size suits kids and smaller adults
Weight	★★★★☆	800–1,100 lbs; strong build for their height
Gait	★★★★☆	Balanced and smooth with an easy trot
Temperament	★★★★★	Incredibly patient and calm
Trainability	★★★★★	Intelligent, willing, and reliable
Maintenance	★★★★☆	Hardy with a thick coat and strong hooves
Life Expectancy	25+ years	Long lifespan with few health issues

6. Appaloosa

Appaloosas are as friendly and dependable as they are colorful. Their unique spotted coats stand out, but it’s their calm mindset and sturdy build that make them such great partners for first-time riders. They’re also known for being smart and steady – ideal for kids or adults learning the ropes. Best For: Trail riding, family riding, beginner lessons, and Western disciplines. Physical Characteristics: Muscular with spotted coat patterns, striped hooves, mottled skin, and white sclera around the eyes.

Height	★★★★☆	14.2–16 hh; comfortable for a wide range of riders
Weight	★★★★☆	950–1,200 lbs; strong, balanced body frame
Gait	★★★★☆	Comfortable and steady gaits
Temperament	★★★★★	Loyal, gentle, and trustworthy
Trainability	★★★★☆	Smart and eager, though some can be a bit independent
Maintenance	★★★★☆	Generally hardy; some lines may be prone to eye issues
Life Expectancy	20+ years	Good longevity with proper care

7. Arabian

Arabians are beautiful, intelligent, and deeply loyal, but also high-energy. While they can bond closely with their owners, they’re best for confident beginners who have some guidance or experience. With consistent training and calm handling, they can be incredible partners. Best For: Trail riding, endurance riding, and riders with some experience or instruction. Physical Characteristics: Refined, wedge-shaped head; arched neck; high tail carriage; compact body with long legs.

Height	★★★☆☆	14.1–15.1 hh; on the smaller side, which helps with mounting
Weight	★★★☆☆	800–1,000 lbs; lean and athletic, not bulky
Gait	★★★★☆	Smooth and fast with excellent endurance
Temperament	★★★☆☆	Intelligent and sensitive; can be high-strung
Trainability	★★★☆☆	Intelligent but needs a confident handler
Maintenance	★★★★☆	Generally healthy and hardy
Life Expectancy	25+ years	Long-lived with proper care

8. Missouri Fox Trotter

Known for their signature “fox trot” gait, this horse breed offers an exceptionally smooth ride. They’re calm, people-friendly, and particularly popular with trail riders. Their dependable nature and gentle movement make them an excellent choice for older adults and nervous first-timers. Best For: Trail riding, smooth riding comfort, older beginners. Physical Characteristics: Well-muscled but not bulky; sloped shoulders; expressive eyes; known for distinctive four-beat gait.

Height	★★★★☆	14–16 hh; comfortable size for most riders
Weight	★★★★☆	900–1,200 lbs; solid build without being too heavy
Gait	★★★★★	Incredibly smooth, especially for long rides
Temperament	★★★★★	Calm, reliable, and people-oriented
Trainability	★★★★☆	Steady learners with a relaxed mindset
Maintenance	★★★★☆	Typically low maintenance and sure-footed
Life Expectancy	20+ years	Healthy and long-living companions

9. Icelandic Horse

Small but mighty, Icelandic Horses are known for their toughness and smooth ride. They have a unique gait called the tölt, which is incredibly comfortable for beginners. Despite their smaller size, they easily carry adults and have a friendly, easygoing nature. Best For: Trail riding, beginners of all ages, riders who want a smooth gait. Physical Characteristics: Compact and stocky; thick mane and tail; double coat; friendly face; sturdy legs and hooves.

Height	★★★☆☆	13–14 hh; pony-sized but strong enough for adults
Weight	★★★☆☆	700–900 lbs; dense, muscular build
Gait	★★★★★	Features the tölt, a smooth, four-beat gait
Temperament	★★★★★	Friendly, curious, and calm
Trainability	★★★★☆	Willing and steady; enjoys attention
Maintenance	★★★★☆	Very hardy and built for tough climates
Life Expectancy	30+ years	Exceptionally long lifespan with proper care

10. Thoroughbred

While Thoroughbreds are often seen as racehorses, many off-track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs) become wonderful riding companions. They’re athletic, intelligent, and can be very affectionate. That said, they’re best suited for calm, confident beginners working with a trainer or instructor. Best For: English riding, light jumping, and confident beginners with guidance. Physical Characteristics: Tall and lean; long neck; deep chest; refined head; long legs.

Height	★★★★☆	15.2–17 hh; tall and leggy; may be intimidating for small riders
Weight	★★★★☆	1,000–1,300 lbs; athletic build; not bulky
Gait	★★★★☆	Long, elegant stride
Temperament	★★★☆☆	Sensitive and alert; can be high-energy
Trainability	★★★☆☆	Learns quickly but may need experienced handling
Maintenance	★★★☆☆	May require more care, especially off-track horses
Life Expectancy	20+ years	Healthy with proper nutrition and care

Tips for First-Time Horse Owners

Bringing home your first horse is exciting, but also a big commitment. Here are a few tips to help you start strong:

1. Try Before You Buy

Before jumping into ownership, spend time around horses.

• Take riding lessons at a local barn to build skills and confidence.
• Lease a horse short-term to see what daily care and riding feel like.

This helps you learn what kind of horse fits your lifestyle, without the full-time responsibility right away.

2. Match the Horse to Your Experience

Your first horse should be calm, well-trained, and forgiving.

• Don’t fall for looks alone – focus on temperament.
• Choose a size you feel comfortable handling on the ground and in the saddle.

3. Pick the Right Age

While young horses can be tempting, they usually need experienced handlers.

• Horses aged 8 to 15 years often make the best first-time partners.
• They’ve had time to mature, have steady temperaments, and usually know the basics.

4. Get Help When Buying

Bring a trainer or experienced horseperson with you when looking at horses.

• They’ll spot red flags you might miss and help you find a safe, sound match.
• A pre-purchase vet check is also a must (just like a home inspection before buying a house).

Owning a horse is incredibly rewarding, especially when you start with the right one. Take your time, ask questions, and lean on folks who’ve done it before.

Finding the Best Horse for Your Farm

Choosing your first horse isn’t just about color or build. It’s about personality, safety, and finding a good match for your family’s needs. The right horse will make all the difference in creating a fun, safe, and rewarding experience, especially when you're just getting started. For more information on horses, check out our Equine blog series.