Horse breeds / Morab
Photo: Heather Moreton · CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Horse breed
Morab
The Morab is a United States breed developed in the 1950s and 1960s by crossing Arabian and Morgan horses, with the goal of combining the Arabian's stamina, refinement and athleticism with the Morgan's sturdy build, calm disposition and versatility. Breeders aimed for a horse that could work in many disciplines without sacrificing soundness or good manners.
Morabs are known for a level, willing temperament and a pleasant, forward way of going. Many are comfortable for riders who are still building confidence, though their Arabian heritage gives them enough spark to keep experienced riders engaged. They tend to form strong bonds with their people and respond well to clear, consistent handling.
Day to day, a Morab needs regular turnout, steady work and plenty of companionship. Like most horses, they do best with daily movement and human contact, and they can become bored or restless when kept isolated or under-exercised.
Good for: First-time owners, trail riders, all-around riders
| Size | medium |
| Weight | 992–1190 lb |
| Height | 57–62 in |
| Life span | 25–30 years |
| Exercise | about 45 min a day |
| Shedding | moderate |
| Origin | United States |
Watch feed and weight closely, since Morabs can gain condition easily and metabolic problems are a concern.
Living with a Morab
Exercise
Most Morabs need several days a week of ridden or in-hand work plus daily turnout to stay fit and content. Too little exercise can lead to excess energy, weight gain or behavior problems when work resumes.
Grooming
Morabs have a fine, shiny coat that is easy to keep clean with regular brushing. Their mane and tail are typically full but manageable, and they have no feathering. Regular hoof care with a farrier every 6 to 8 weeks keeps them comfortable, and clipping is usually only needed for horses in heavy win
At home
Morabs are generally hardy and adapt well to a range of climates, so they can live outdoors with proper shelter and turnout. They usually do well in a herd, though they can also be kept with a single companion. Many are fairly easy keepers, but individual needs vary, so adjust feed and forage to body condition and workload.
Training
Morabs learn quickly and are generally willing partners. They are often suited to trail, dressage, western pleasure and hunter-style work, and many do well as all-around horses. A green Morab usually settles into training with patience, though some may show Arabian sensitivity and need a calm, steady approach.
Health
Morabs are generally considered sound, but as a breed they can be prone to conditions common to Arabian-type horses, such as metabolic concerns and laminitis in some individuals. Ask a veterinarian about your horse's specific risks, screening and a preventive care plan.
- Laminitis
- Metabolic syndrome
- Colic
Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.
The numbers for a Morab
Forage and water, adult
16–27 lb of hay a day
Forage at 1.5–2.5% of body weight at 992–1190 lb, and 10–17 gallons of water, more in heat and on hay alone. Grain only for the work being done.
What a year costs
$3,100–$5,250
Hay about $1,883, 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 Morab 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 Morab
Shelters and breed rescues list Morabs and Morab mixes every week. Search adoptable Morabs on Petfinder → New to the breed? The first-horse kit →
Is a Morab right for you?
- Yes if you want a sturdy, versatile horse for trail and show
- Yes if you enjoy a willing horse that learns quickly
- Yes if you can provide daily turnout and steady work
- Think twice if you want a very lazy, low-energy horse
- Think twice if you cannot manage feed closely for an easy keeper
Questions owners ask
Are Morabs good for beginners?
Many Morabs are good for beginners because of their calm, willing temperament. Individual horses vary, so have an experienced trainer evaluate any horse before you buy.
How much does a Morab cost?
Prices vary widely by age, training, bloodlines and region. Expect a wide range, and factor in ongoing costs for feed, farrier, vet care and board.
How tall do Morabs get?
Morabs typically stand about 14.3 to 15.5 hands at the withers, or roughly 145 to 157 centimetres. Height varies with individual lines.
How long do Morabs live?
With good care, Morabs commonly live into their mid-20s or 30s. Diet, dental care, hoof care and preventive veterinary care all affect longevity.
Are Morabs easy keepers?
Many Morabs are easy keepers and can gain weight on modest feed. Monitor body condition, and consult your vet or nutritionist about a feeding plan.
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.