Missouri Foxtrotter

This American breed of horse was developed in the Ozark Mountain foothills, and used by settlers who valued its smoothness, sure-footedness, and comfort.  Unlike most gaited breeds who’s gaits are lateral, the Missouri Fox Trotter has a unique diagonal four-beat gait – the fox trot.

While performing the fox trot, the horse appears to walk with its front legs and trot with its hind.  The gait has a clear pattern of diagonal foot movement where the front foot hits the ground a split-second before the opposite rear foot.  The head shakes in unison with the rhythm of the gait and the tail balances the movements of the head.

Early breeders influenced the gliding fox trot gait by blending American Saddle Horses, Standardbreds, Tennessee Walkers, Morgan, Thoroughbred and Arabian, creating a breed that is very versatile and multi-gaited.  Depending on their breeding influence, many are able to perform in addition to the flat foot walk and fox trot, a running walk or rack and a beautiful canter.  Missouri Fox Trotting horses are naturally gaited with no special shoeing or training required to make them perform their smooth gaits.

They stand between 14.2 and 16.2 hands high, are very intelligent and have a gentle, willing disposition.  Fox Trotters come in most colors, including solids, roans and spotted patterns.  The horses are typically shown in western style performance classes, ranch horse, english pleasure, show jumping, driving and halter classes.

The Missouri Fox Trotter is a very popular pleasure/family horse used for trail and endurance riding and for anyone who spends many hours in the saddle.  They are the horse of choice for riders with back issues and those looking for a smooth, comfortable ride.

For more information, visit the Upper Midwest Missouri Fox Trotter Association at www.uppermidwestfoxtrotter.com