Horse breeds / AQPS
Photo: Tsaag Valren · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Horse breed
AQPS
The AQPS, or Anglo-Arabe Pur-Sang, is a French sport horse bred from Thoroughbred and Arabian foundations, with the Thoroughbred contributing much of the type and athleticism. It was developed in France over the twentieth century, largely in the Anglo-Arabe tradition, to produce horses that combined the stamina and refinement of the Arabian with the speed and scope of the Thoroughbred. The breed was aimed at riding and sport, especially show jumping, eventing, and the wider French competition scene.
AQPS horses are generally athletic, forward-going, and quick to respond to the rider. They tend to have a bold, lively way of moving and a good jump, which suits experienced riders who enjoy competition. They can be sensitive and energetic, so they are usually less forgiving for complete beginners, though calm individuals do exist and are prized.
Day to day, these horses need regular, purposeful work and turnout that lets them move freely. Their intelligence and energy mean they do best with a consistent routine, enough mental stimulation, and companionship, as they can become bored or fretful when left idle.
Good for: Experienced riders, sport and competition
| Size | large |
| Weight | 992–1213 lb |
| Height | 61–67 in |
| Life span | 25–30 years |
| Exercise | about 60 min a day |
| Shedding | moderate |
| Origin | France |
Choose a calm, experienced individual and get a pre-purchase vet exam, since these are energetic horses that suit experienced handlers best.
Living with a AQPS
Exercise
Most AQPS horses need regular daily work, typically several sessions a week with turnout on other days. Insufficient exercise can lead to excess energy, nervousness, or unwanted behavior under saddle.
Grooming
The AQPS has a fine, short coat that is relatively easy to keep clean. Mane and tail are usually moderate in thickness and need routine brushing. Hooves should be trimmed or shod regularly, and clipping is often needed for horses in consistent work during winter.
At home
AQPS horses usually do best with generous daily turnout, ideally with a companion, and stabling when weather or work demands it. They are generally considered hardy and adapt reasonably well to a range of climates. Most are moderate to hard keepers, so they often need quality hay supplemented by a balanced concentrate suited to their workload. Feed should be adjusted carefully to avoid excess energy.
Training
AQPS horses tend to learn quickly and respond well to clear, consistent handling, though they can be sensitive to harsh correction. They are generally suited to show jumping, eventing, dressage, and hacking, reflecting their sport-horse heritage. A green AQPS will often be forward and willing but may need time to develop balance, focus, and patience under saddle.
Health
AQPS horses, like many sport-type horses, can be prone to musculoskeletal issues and soundness problems linked to athletic work. Specific breed-related conditions are not widely documented, so general sport-horse health concerns apply. Please consult a veterinarian for guidance on the health of any individual horse.
- Musculoskeletal soundness issues
- Hoof problems
- Colic
Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.
The numbers for a AQPS
Forage and water, adult
17–28 lb of hay a day
Forage at 1.5–2.5% of body weight at 992–1213 lb, and 10–18 gallons of water, more in heat and on hay alone. Grain only for the work being done.
What a year costs
$3,150–$5,350
Hay about $1,971, plus farrier every 6–8 weeks, routine vet, dental and dewormer. Board, lessons and showing on top; US averages.
Weather
Watch above 80°F, stop at 90°F
Blanket or shelter below 10°F. Horses mind heat more than cold: with shelter and water most are fine to about 10°F unclipped, and above a heat index of 150 (air °F + humidity %) ride early or not at all.
Where a AQPS is comfortable
Easy most of the year: Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Washington, DC, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.
Summer needs care (early rides, shade, fans): Arizona, Nevada, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah.
Winter needs care (blanket, shelter, water that is not frozen): North Dakota.
From typical July highs and January lows by state and this breed's heat and cold limits. Shade, shelter and water change everything; this is about turnout and work.
Right now
Latest feed recalls
Multiple Brand Names: Chicken Feed, Swine Feed, Cattle Feed, Horse Feed
ADM Animal Nutrition · Apr 1 · Specific lots may contain elevated levels of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium and/or chloride and may harm chickens, swine, beef cattle and equine.
Rescue a AQPS
Shelters and breed rescues list AQPSs and AQPS mixes every week. Search adoptable AQPSs on Petfinder → New to the breed? The first-horse kit →
Is a AQPS right for you?
- Yes if you want a forward, athletic horse for jumping or eventing
- Yes if you ride regularly and enjoy training a responsive partner
- Think twice if you are a complete beginner seeking a very calm mount
- Think twice if you cannot provide consistent daily work
- Yes if you want a sport horse with Arabian-influenced stamina
Questions owners ask
Is the AQPS good for beginners?
Generally no. They are energetic and sensitive, so they suit experienced riders. A well-trained, quiet individual can sometimes work for a confident beginner with instruction.
How much does an AQPS cost?
Prices vary widely with age, training, and pedigree. Expect a broad range, and get a professional evaluation before buying any horse.
How tall is an AQPS?
Most stand roughly 155 to 170 centimetres at the withers, which is about 15.2 to 16.2 hands, though individual horses vary.
How long do AQPS horses live?
Typically 25 to 30 years with good care, though lifespan depends on health, management, and workload.
What are AQPS horses used for?
They are mainly used for show jumping, eventing, dressage, and general riding, reflecting their French sport-horse breeding.
Similar breeds
Written by Hoofdeck editors · updated Nov 13, 2026 · facts from Wikidata and Wikimedia Commons; health notes are general veterinary guidance, not a diagnosis.