If you're new to the equestrian world or are simply a lover of horses, you may have come across the term "black horse" and wondered exactly what it means. Is it a specific breed? Does it refer to a unique coat color? Or is there something entirely different about these intriguing equines? In this blog post, we will explore the fascinating world of black horses, including their history, characteristics, and how to care for these gorgeous animals.
What Is Black Horse Table of Contents
What is a Black Horse?
A black horse, as the name suggests, is a horse that showcases a coat color that ranges from nearly true black to a deep, dark brown. The term "black horse" is most commonly used as a generic, rather than breed-specific, description for horses that display this color.
Black Horse Genetics and Color Variations
The color of a black horse is determined by the presence of one or two copies of the dominant "E" (extension) gene and the presence of the recessive "a" (agouti) gene. If both parents have at least one copy of these genes, their offspring have a good chance of being black. Some common color variations in black horses include:
- True Black: characterized by a uniformly black coat without any distinct brown or red tint
- Fading Black: black horses that tend to fade or lighten when exposed to sun
- Non-Fading Black: black horses that do not fade or lighten even when exposed to sun
Black Horses in History and Mythology
Black horses have appeared in the myths and legends of various cultures throughout history. In Greek mythology, Poseidon, the god of the sea, created a beautiful black horse from a foaming wave. In Norse mythology, Odin, the god of wisdom, rode an eight-legged black horse named Sleipnir. Black horses are also prevalent in literature and film, often symbolizing strength, power, and mystery.
Breeds Commonly Found in Black
Though many horse breeds can have black horses, some are more commonly associated with the color. These breeds include:
- Friesian: a Dutch breed known for its elegant black mane and tail
- Percheron: a French draft breed with solid black coloring
- Thoroughbred: a breed widely used in horse racing, which can be found in a range of colors, including black
- Black Forest Horses: a rare draft breed originating from Germany, characterized by their dark chestnut coat
What Is Black Horse Example:
Meet Thunder, a Black Thoroughbred
Thunder is a 10-year-old black Thoroughbred gelding who has retired from a successful racing career. After transitioning to a new life as a pleasure horse, his owner noticed that Thunder's coat would fade slightly in the sun. To prevent further fading, his owner chose to provide him with a UV-protective fly sheet during turnout and adjusted his feed to include nutritional supplements that support coat health. Thanks to these efforts, Thunder's coat has remained a beautiful, dark black with minimal fading—making him a true standout among his fellow horses.
Now that you have a better understanding of black horses, you can truly appreciate their stunning beauty and rich history. As with any horse, owning a black horse requires careful attention to grooming, nutrition, and exercise to maintain a healthy, vibrant coat and overall well-being. If you found this article helpful, be sure to share it with your fellow horse enthusiasts and explore our other guides on How to Own a Horse. Happy horse owning!
