Horse breed guide

Mustang

Origin: Western United States (feral descendants of Spanish horses)

Quick facts

Origin

Western United States (feral descendants of Spanish horses)

Height

13.2–15.0 hh

Weight

360–450 kg

Lifespan

25–30 yrs

Colors

All colors and patterns

Primary uses

Trail, endurance, ranch, mounted patrol, therapy

About the Mustang

Hardy, intelligent, and self-reliant. Mustangs adopted from BLM rounds-ups need patient gentling — once bonded, they become loyal partners. They are surefooted and naturally cautious from generations of survival.

Feeding & nutrition

Free-choice grass hay and a slow feeder. Mustangs gain weight easily and are prone to laminitis on lush forage.

Build a ration plan in HorseCare →

Health watch-outs

Generally robust due to natural selection. Watch for metabolic syndrome on rich diets and dental issues from feral wear patterns.

Care tips

Adopt through BLM (Bureau of Land Management) — title transfers after one year of approved care.

Iron-tough hooves; many work barefoot their entire lives.

Easy keepers — track-style 'paddock paradise' setups suit them better than rich pasture.

Start gentling slowly; many mustangs have never been touched before adoption.

Related breeds

American Quarter Horse

Track your Mustang with HorseCare

Health records, training, and forage-first nutrition — plus a scan that fits this breed. 5 free scans this month, then Pro.

Scan the hoof

5 free scans this month, then Pro. Scans run in the HorseCare app.