I have had several 1/2 Arabian, 1/2
Saddlebreds and they have all been absolutely wonderful horses! The ones
we have had all had fast walks, super fast trots, don't shy at anything, and
just love to go down the trail. Some of them do have a high wither/low
back conformation, but it is very different from a purebred with a long back,
and we have never had any problem with the backs at all, with heavyweight
riders.
I have found them to take a little
longer to get into condition. Their pulses are fine for high middle of the
pack types, but if you were really running for a serious win, I'd ride a
purebred, who will have an advantage in the vet
checks.
Speaking of crosses, we are riding a
gorgeous "mutt" who is a homozygous 15.3h pinto stallion who is 3/8 Arabian, 3/8
saddlebred, and 1/4 Paint! He seems to have gotten the best of all three
(though I don't see much paint in him) and has been a wonderful
ride..smooth..good PR...
I think more people are riding crosses
now than in the past?
