Hunter Horse
The term hunter refers to a horse that is suited to carrying a rider behind foxhounds safely, sensibly and comfortably for a season’s hunting.
Different types of hunting country require different types of horses. In flattish country with large, open fields and big fences speed and bold jumping are all-important, and Thoroughbred or near-Thoroughbred types are best. On rough or hilly country, or where the going is heavy and hwere the scenting is less good, crosses of Thoroughbreds and light draught or native pony breeds are bettwe as they provide a mount with a calm temperament, sure-footedness, lots of stamina and a good instinct of self preservation.
Show hunters are deivided into classes by weight. In Britain there are classes of carrying over 92 kj (12 st 7 lb), middle-weight hunters carrying 82 -92 kg (13 st - 14 st 7lb), lightweight hunters carrying up to 82 kg(13 st), small hunters between 14.2 and 15.2 hands, and ladies’ hunters, which are to be ridden side=saddle. The qualities that are looked for are good comformation, good manners, and equable temperament, a comfortable ride, and good action in all paces, especially at the gallop. In the USA hunters are also divided into classes according to expericnce. In the USA, and in Britain’s Working Hunter classes horses are required to jump.