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The term “hunter” is used to describe a type of horse or pony that would be suitable to take hunting, or has taken part in a hunt.

A hunter type horse or pony can vary in size, type, colour and breed. Often hunter types are categorised as light, medium and heavy weight horses, also as a ladies or a gentleman’s hunter, the former being a lighter weight smaller horse the latter a heavier weight, larger horse.  

A hunter type horse or pony must have a number of qualities, a well mannered horse that is good to handle and an uncomplicated ride, a horse that is happy to be ridden out alone or in company, to go first or last and that is good with traffic. Many hunter type horses are used to compete in cross country competitions, hunter trails, and take part in riding club or pony club activities.

The hunter must be a responsive ride as the horse or pony will be faced with many open fields, the hunter must be a good bold jumper as when out on the field there may be many large solid obstacles to tackle such as stone walls, five bar gates, ditches and hurdles. A hunter must be a strong horse and have good stamina as the hunt can go on for hours.

Popular hunter types

Many hunter type horses are Irish draught and Thoroughbred cross breeds also known as the Irish sport horse. The Irish draught has strength, good bone, is a superb jumper and is calm and has an unflappable nature, essential for the hunting field. Thoroughbred horses have excellent strength and stamina and posses speed and a an excellent jumping form, all these qualities make a fantastic hunter.

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