Horse breeds / Walkaloosa
Horse breed
Walkaloosa
The Walkaloosa is a relatively modern American breed developed from crosses between Appaloosa and Tennessee Walking Horse bloodlines. It was created to combine the Appaloosa's spotted coat and sturdy build with the smooth, comfortable gaits of the Walking Horse. Breeders aimed for a riding horse that could cover ground comfortably on trail and in pleasure classes.
Walkaloosas are generally known for a calm, willing temperament and a gentle, smooth way of going. Many are considered suitable for riders who are newer to horses, though individual personalities vary with breeding and training. Their four-beat gaits and steady disposition make them a popular choice for relaxed trail riding and pleasure riding.
Like most riding horses, a Walkaloosa needs daily turnout, regular work, and the company of other horses to stay healthy and content. Consistent hoof care, dental attention, and a balanced diet matter as much as riding time. Owners should plan on regular handling and enrichment to keep the horse happy and well adjusted.
Good for: Trail riders, pleasure riders, and newer owners
| Size | medium |
| Weight | 992–1213 lb |
| Height | 57–63 in |
| Life span | 25–30 years |
| Exercise | about 60 min a day |
| Shedding | moderate |
| Origin | United States |
Walkaloosas are often good for newer owners, but monitor body weight and diet closely, since weight gain can lead to health problems.
Living with a Walkaloosa
Exercise
Most Walkaloosas do well with several days of riding or in-hand work each week, plus daily turnout for movement. Too little exercise can lead to weight gain, boredom, and behavioral issues. A balanced routine of riding and free movement keeps them fit and content.
Grooming
The Walkaloosa coat is typically short and easy to maintain, with spotting patterns that show well when brushed clean. The mane and tail are usually moderate in length and benefit from regular detangling. Hooves need regular trimming or shoeing every four to eight weeks, and clipping is only needed
At home
Walkaloosas do well with daily turnout in a safe paddock or pasture, with shelter from harsh weather. They are generally hardy and adapt to a range of climates. They do best in company, so a herd or at least a pasture companion is recommended. Most are moderate keepers, so feed should be based on body condition, forage, and workload.
Training
Walkaloosas tend to learn steadily and respond well to patient, consistent handling. They are commonly used for trail riding, pleasure riding, and light western work, and some are shown in gaited and pleasure classes. A green Walkaloosa usually needs time to build confidence and muscle before longer rides, so expect progress to be gradual and steady.
Health
Like many horses, Walkaloosas can be prone to conditions linked to diet and weight, such as laminitis, particularly if they are easy keepers. Owners should also be aware of general concerns including dental and hoof problems. Ask a veterinarian for guidance on health screening and preventive care specific to your horse
- Laminitis
- Dental problems
- Hoof problems
Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.
The numbers for a Walkaloosa
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 Walkaloosa 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 Walkaloosa
Shelters and breed rescues list Walkaloosas and Walkaloosa mixes every week. Search adoptable Walkaloosas on Petfinder → New to the breed? The first-horse kit →
Is a Walkaloosa right for you?
- Yes if you want a calm, comfortable trail horse
- Yes if you enjoy smooth, relaxed riding with a gentle partner
- Yes if you have daily time for turnout and regular work
- Think twice if you want a high-level competition horse for jumping
- Think twice if you cannot manage weight and diet closely
Questions owners ask
Are Walkaloosas good for beginners?
Many are considered suitable for beginners because of their calm, steady temperament. Individual horses vary, so a trial ride and a professional evaluation are still wise.
How much does a Walkaloosa cost?
Prices vary widely based on training, bloodline, and age. Expect a range from a few thousand dollars for a green horse to considerably more for a trained one.
How tall do Walkaloosas get?
Walkaloosas typically stand around 14.2 to 16 hands at the withers, though individual horses can differ somewhat.
How long do Walkaloosas live?
With good care, Walkaloosas commonly live into their mid-twenties or beyond. Regular veterinary and farrier care supports a long, healthy life.
What are Walkaloosas used for?
They are mainly used for trail riding and pleasure riding, and some compete in gaited and pleasure classes. Their smooth gaits make them comfortable for long rides.
Similar breeds
Written by Hoofdeck editors · updated Nov 13, 2026 · facts from Wikidata; health notes are general veterinary guidance, not a diagnosis.