How to Identify Morgan Horses

The Morgan horse breed is one of the longest standing breeds in America and was originated with the purpose of a workhorse in mind. Since its inception, it has been noted for its versatility in mastering many things. All Morgan’s can trace their lineage back to a single sire born in the late 1700's. Identifying a Morgan is easy if you know the breed standards.

• Conformation. The head is broad and expressive with wide set prominent eyes. Well-rounded jowls angle softly to firm lips. The Morgan’s ears are short and sharp with mares having a slightly more elongated ear. The neck drops to a particularly well angulated shoulder. The neck should be slightly angled in its carriage and the top line of the neck is much longer than the bottom line. The body of a Morgan is compact and muscular with deep flanks and the tail is attached high. Legs are straight, sound, and characterized by short cannons. The Cannon is the bone running from the knee to the fetlock – similar to the tibia/fibula in the human.


• Physical Abilities. This horse has exceptional stamina and vigor. It always appears to have an alert look. It has a good attitude and is adaptable to many situations. When the Morgan is “Stacked” or posed, it will stand squarely on all fours. Front legs will run perpendicular to the ground and the back legs may be slightly back from right angles.


• Colors. The most common colors for Morgan’s are bay, black and chestnut. Other more uncommon but accepted colors are grey, palomino, roan, dun, buckskin and silver dapple. Recently a registration rule was changed to allow several of the pinto colors into the acceptable breed standards including the splashed white, sabino and overo.