Horse breeds / Racking horse
Horse breed
Racking horse
The Racking Horse was developed in the United States, most strongly in the Tennessee and Kentucky region, as a comfortable riding horse for plantation owners and long rides over rough ground. Breeders selected for a smooth, four-beat gait called the rack, which lets a rider cover distance without the jolting of a trot. The breed was later recognized as a distinct registry breed and remains closely tied to its Southern roots.
Racking Horses are known for a calm, willing temperament and a people-oriented attitude that makes them approachable for many riders. Their smooth gait is a major draw for trail riders and anyone who wants a comfortable ride over long distances. Many are good choices for beginners when well started, though their energy and gait training require a consistent, patient hand.
Day to day, a Racking Horse needs regular turnout, daily work, and a companion of its own kind where possible. Good hoof care, dental attention, and a balanced diet keep them sound and comfortable. Owners who enjoy trail riding or pleasure riding will find this breed especially rewarding to keep.
Good for: Trail riders, pleasure riders, gaited show enthusiasts
| Size | medium |
| Weight | 992–1213 lb |
| Height | 58–65 in |
| Life span | 25–30 years |
| Exercise | about 45 min a day |
| Shedding | moderate |
| Origin | United States |
Choose a Racking Horse with a proven, calm temperament and get a vet and experienced trainer involved early.
Living with a Racking horse
Exercise
A healthy adult Racking Horse typically needs about 30 to 60 minutes of ridden or in-hand work most days, plus turnout for free movement. Too little exercise can lead to weight gain, boredom, and behavior issues.
Grooming
Racking Horses have a short, glossy coat that needs regular brushing and occasional bathing. Mane and tail should be kept clean and detangled, and hooves trimmed or shod every five to eight weeks. Clipping is usually only needed for horses that work hard in winter.
At home
Racking Horses adapt well to turnout with shelter, though many owners prefer a mix of pasture time and stabling in harsh weather. They are generally hardy and handle American climates well. They do best in a herd or with a companion horse, since they can become lonely alone. Most are moderate keepers, but rich pasture can cause weight gain, so monitor feed closely.
Training
Racking Horses learn quickly and respond well to patient, consistent training. They excel at trail riding, pleasure riding, and showing in gaited classes, and many also enjoy general riding work. A green horse of this breed often takes time to develop a smooth, correct rack, so expect a gradual process rather than rapid results.
Health
Racking Horses are generally sound, but like many breeds they can be prone to conditions linked to weight and diet, such as laminitis. Owners should ask a veterinarian about routine screening, feeding plans, and any breed-specific concerns.
- Laminitis
- Metabolic issues
- Colic
Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.
The numbers for a Racking 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 Racking 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 Racking horse
Shelters and breed rescues list Racking horses and Racking horse mixes every week. Search adoptable Racking horses on Petfinder → New to the breed? The first-horse kit →
Is a Racking horse right for you?
- Yes if you want a smooth ride for long trail miles.
- Yes if you have time for steady gait training.
- Yes if you want a calm, people-oriented companion.
- Think twice if you want a fast, athletic jumper.
- Think twice if you cannot provide daily work and turnout.
Questions owners ask
Are Racking Horses good for beginners?
Many are, especially calm, trained individuals with a proven track record. Choose one with good manners and get guidance from an experienced trainer or instructor.
How much does a Racking Horse cost?
Prices vary widely by training, pedigree, and age. Trained riding horses usually cost more than untrained youngsters, so research local sellers and breeders carefully.
How tall do Racking Horses get?
Most stand roughly 14.2 to 16 hands at the withers, depending on bloodlines and individual development.
How long do Racking Horses live?
With good care, many live into their mid-twenties to around thirty years, similar to other riding breeds.
Are Racking Horses easy keepers?
Many are moderate to easy keepers, so diet and pasture access should be managed to prevent weight gain and metabolic problems.
Similar breeds
Written by Hoofdeck editors · updated Nov 13, 2026 · facts from Wikidata; health notes are general veterinary guidance, not a diagnosis.