Pet Doctor

Rockwall Vet Clinic says this astonishing animal, which is also referred to as a Tennessee Walker or more accurately as the Tennessee Walking Horse, is the quintessential smooth-gaited equine. Without the need for special training, the “glide walk” is readily obvious even to people unfamiliar with horses. Not surprisingly, these horses are not only exceptionally beautiful, but they are gentle giants that are bred to be ridden, and are thus favorites among teaching stables that cater to children or senior citizens. Riders — who might have been otherwise uncomfortable when on the trail or even just during regular practice sessions at the riding school — find that the animals’ special gait makes them an excellent alternative to other breeds.

Tennessee Walking Horses are known as the Golden Retrievers of the horse world because of their calm and obedient personalities. The fabled gait of these horses is best compared to a “gliding run” or “running walk” that is markedly devoid of the jarring jumps other equines may take when slightly accelerating. The “running walk” takes the place of the bouncing trot that is so uncomfortable for most riders. This is a pleasure for seated riders, so a leisurely trail ride allows the rider the opportunity to concentrate on riding skills, as well as enjoy other riders, conversation, and the scenery.

The “running walk” has been clocked at about 10 to 20 miles per hour. Even an only incremental increase in speed leads to a decrease in smoothness of the motions. Riders frequently comment on the rhythmically nodding head that accompanies the gait. Most equines of this breed are capable of other gaits than what they are best known for. We also hear about gaits known as the rack, pace, and foxtrot. They are also famous for the “rocking chair” canter.

It is interesting to note that the famous gait is actually breed-specific and thus hereditary; it has far less to do with training. This gaited trail horse was deliberately developed in Tennessee during the late 1800′s. Farmers there wanted an animal that would work in the fields with them during the day, yet be a smooth easy ride during off work hours. Tennessee Walking Horses are the result of cross breeding Thoroughbreds, Saddlebreds, Morgans, Standardbreds, and Narranganett Pacers. As outlined by the National Walking Horse Association, this gentle giant accomplishes naturally what many other breeds must learn as an artificial gait: the inborn ability to glide at predefined speeds.

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