by Judy Evans

Created on: August 17, 2009   Last Updated: August 18, 2009

The Morab breed of horse is one of the few examples where simply crossing two breeds in this case, the Arab and Morgan has been a resounding success and has resulted in an animal which has inherited the best qualities of both.

Horse breeders have often been inclined to cross two breeds in an effort to obtain an animal with superior qualities. The resulting crossbreds are often disappointing with the desired traits appearing in a haphazard and random manner (if they appear at all) and undesirable characteristics often being magnified. There may be no consistency of quality or type, even between two animals from the same parents.

However, in the case of the Morab, there is a uniformity to the appearance, and a degree of refinement, that carries on down through the generations. Morabs are highly prepotent and display a distinctiveness that marks it as more than just a half-bred Morgan or Arab. The well-defined characteristics are transmitted with a consistency and certainty to succeeding generations.

The sculptural beauty of the Arab is enhanced by the strength and dramatic flair of the Morgan to produce a stunning, eye-catching mount that has the necessary requisites to pursue any form of equestrian sport. At the same time, the disposition is kindly and sensible, producing a truly versatile and adaptable mount.

Both breeds have beauty, speed, soundness and endurance as well as enviable dispositions. It is only in degree that they vary.

The positives of both breeds are enhanced in the Morab. While there is some variation in height and appearance (some looking more Arab-y than others) there is no 'doubling up' of any negative attributes. The power and vigour of the Morgan comes together with the elegance and sensitivity of the Arab to produce a horse that is gaining in popularity very rapidly.

The Arab has a skeletal frame unique in the horse world. It has 17 ribs, 5 lumbar vertebrae and 16 tall vertebrae. Other breeds have 18, 6 and 18 respectively. The Morab has inherited the spinal system of the Arab resulting in a shorter, stronger back. The longer croup of the Morgan remains, giving the horse greater strength, a smooth gait and a natural athleticism that sees it performing at the top end of demanding equestrian sports such as dressage, jumping, cutting and endurance. At the other end of the scale, they are just as happy baby-sitting the youngsters (or grand-parents) on a trail ride. They are proud and flashy enough for parade work and sensible enough

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