Were it not for the question of whether a horse could be created with the physical traits of a Thoroughbred and the temperament of an Arabian, the Anglo-Arabian may have never come into existence. The most comprehensive breeding program of Thoroughbreds and Arabians came about in a region of France on a state held stud farm. It was a complicated undertaking that took many years of careful selection to get off the ground before a true Anglo-Arabian breed could be established. However, once the endeavor took off the Anglo-Arabian became a top choice for a large number of individuals, including organizations such as the military and police. While they are a most reliable breed many enthusiast enjoy the fact that each Anglo-Arabian can be a little bit different based on the percentages of its bloodline.
Many enthusiasts agree that the Anglo-Arabian is a great example of what happens when the best elements of two bloodlines are allowed to mix together and bubble to the top. Crossing the two breeds can always mean slight variances in form and temperament from one horse to another; however, they are still at the best choice for those wanting Arabian form with Thoroughbred power. They are seen in a number of horse related sports and consistently perform well in everything from eventing to western riding disciplines. The breed is also a top choice for those who play sports such as polo. The Anglo-Arabian's compact body offers easy maneuverability and their Arabian stamina provides dependability out on the field.
As was found in the very beginning back in France, certain percentages of bloodline can produce a number of attractive results. It has been found stunning specimens can be created not only via Arabian and Thoroughbred crosses but via Anglo-Arabian and Arabian or Anglo-Arabian and Thoroughbred. This is often where the variances in physical and temperamental characteristics come into play. However, it should be noted that the differences are often subtle and typically complementary. Interestingly, some feel two Anglo-Arabians mated together do not seem to produce as well a rounded progeny as could be expected. Nonetheless, while there is no one cross officially considered better than the other, there are many Anglo-Arabian enthusiasts who have their own opinion on the subject.
To enter an Anglo-Arabian into most breed registries, there are certain rules on bloodlines that must be followed. In general, it does not matter whether a horse is Arabian and Thoroughbred, Anglo-Arabian and Arabian, Anglo-Arabian and Thoroughbred or Anglo-Arabian and Anglo-Arabian; the horse must have no more than seventy five percent Arabian blood and no less than twenty five percent Arabian blood in its makeup. Even though they do not require one purebred parent to be registered, the Anglo-Arabian is still included in the Arabian family. The Anglo-Arabian can be registered with the Anglo-Arabian Horse Registry, the Arabian Horse Association, or in Europe, the French National Stud. Once registered in the AAHR or the AHA, horses become eligible to participate in Futurities and other prestigious events.
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