What is an Australian Stock Horse?

The following description has been prepared by Peter and Jeanette Gower as a "Standard of Excellence".

The Australian Stock Horse is a special type saddle horse - not all saddle horses make good Stock Horses, but all good Stock Horses are top saddle horses. Above all else the Australian Stock Horse is an athlete, unmistakably bloodhorse, with a generous desire to work, averaging 15 - 15.2 hands.

He is highly adaptable, and smart, capable of handling himself well at speed. Like a well trained sheepdog he enjoys action, but does not use his energy until asked.

His nature and courage is truly incredible - he easily develops a close bond with his human carer, and when put to the test will often give more than it is thought possible under extraordinary circumstances.

TYPE:

PRESENTATION:
He is not shown stretched but square so as to emphasize a hindleg set well under the body. He is shown preferably in traditional Australian dress, well trimmed with hogged or pulled mane/tail but English informal attire is also acceptable with plaited mane and tail. Broken horses are traditionally led in a bridle.

Further information is available from the:
Australian Stock Horse Society