The National Show Horse is breed defined as a horse possessing a minimum of 50% Arabian blood. The combination of beauty, stamina, agility, grace, charisma, and flowing athleticism results in the versatility of the National Show Horse. These traits can be adapted to many ridden and driven disciplines, making the breed particularly appealing as a show horse with which every member of the family can become involved.
The breed was originally established in the late 20th century as a cross between Arabian and American Saddlebred horses with the goal of highlighting the best of both breeds in a single show horse. Due in large part to their natural upright carriage and lofty animated action, the National Show Horse is predominantly ridden saddle seat in pleasure, park, and equitation classes, or driven as a fine harness or pleasure driving horse. However, their inherent dynamism, athleticism, and willing disposition make this extremely versatile breed equally successful in a wide variety of classes.
National Show Horses are typically between 14.3 and 16.2 hands and can be found in any coat color, including pinto.