Horse breeds / North American Single-Footing Horse
Horse breed
North American Single-Footing Horse
The North American Single-Footing Horse is an American gaited breed developed to carry riders smoothly over long distances. Its ancestry draws on the Tennessee Walking Horse, Missouri Fox Trotter and related saddle-gaited lines, shaped by a demand for comfortable, durable mounts on farms and trails. Breeders valued a four-beat single-foot gait that keeps one foot on the ground at all times, making it easier on both rider and horse.
Owners tend to describe a calm, willing horse with a steady, forward disposition. The single-foot gait is smooth enough that many riders with back or hip issues find it comfortable, and the breed is generally considered suitable for beginners who are patient and consistent. Horses can be people-oriented and eager to please, though individuals vary, and some are more sensitive than others to rough handling.
Day to day, these horses need regular turnout, steady work and companionship. Riding several times a week keeps the gait well developed and the horse content. Keeping one alone for long periods can lead to boredom, so pairing it with another horse or a companion animal is a good idea.
Good for: First-time owners, trail riders, gaited pleasure riding
| Size | medium |
| Weight | 992–1213 lb |
| Height | 58–64 in |
| Life span | 25–30 years |
| Exercise | about 60 min a day |
| Shedding | moderate |
| Origin | United States |
Expect consistent work and attention to weight, since gaited horses can gain condition easily on rich feed.
Living with a North American Single-Footing Horse
Exercise
Most healthy adults need one to two hours of ridden or in-hand work several times a week, plus daily turnout. Too little work can lead to excess energy, weight gain and a less refined gait.
Grooming
The coat is typically short and easy to maintain, with regular brushing sufficing most of the year. Mane and tail are usually left natural, and hooves need trimming or shoeing every four to eight weeks, depending on terrain.
At home
This breed generally does well with a combination of turnout and shelter, and is reasonably hardy in a range of climates. It usually settles into a herd well and handles time with a companion better than time alone. Most are moderate keepers, so good hay and a balanced ration often cover needs, though individual metabolism varies and body condition should guide feeding.
Training
These horses tend to learn quickly and respond well to clear, consistent cues, and their gait can be developed with patient schooling. They are best suited to trail riding, pleasure and gaited events, and they can adapt to western or English tack. A green horse of this breed usually needs time to build a reliable gait and steady focus before being asked for more advanced work.
Health
Like many gaited horses, individuals can be prone to hoof and leg concerns and to metabolic conditions that affect weight and insulin regulation. Ask a veterinarian about screening and an appropriate care plan for your horse.
- Laminitis
- Metabolic syndrome
- Hoof problems
Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.
The numbers for a North American Single-Footing Horse
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 North American Single-Footing Horse 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 North American Single-Footing Horse
Shelters and breed rescues list North American Single-Footing Horses and North American Single-Footing Horse mixes every week. Search adoptable North American Single-Footing Horses on Petfinder → New to the breed? The first-horse kit →
Is a North American Single-Footing Horse right for you?
- Yes if you want a smooth ride for long trail hours.
- Yes if you ride regularly and enjoy patient schooling.
- Yes if you have a companion horse or herd to keep it happy.
- Think twice if you want a horse that is easy to keep lean.
- Think twice if you plan to ride only occasionally or mostly show.
Questions owners ask
Is the North American Single-Footing Horse good for beginners?
Often yes. Many are calm and smooth, but a beginner should work with an experienced trainer and choose a horse with a documented, steady temperament.
How much does this breed cost?
Prices vary widely with training, bloodlines and location. Expect a broad range, and budget for ongoing feed, farrier, veterinary and tack costs.
How tall do they get?
Adults typically stand about 147 to 163 centimetres at the withers, roughly 14.5 to 16 hands, with individual variation.
How long do they live?
With good care, many live into their mid-twenties or longer, though lifespan depends on health, feeding and management.
Are they easy keepers?
Many are, so weight can creep up on rich pasture. Monitor body condition and adjust feed and turnout accordingly.
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Written by Hoofdeck editors · updated Nov 13, 2026 · facts from Wikidata; health notes are general veterinary guidance, not a diagnosis.