What is an Arabian horse?

This may seem like a silly question to ask, but the answer is not simple at all. Merely defining an Arab as a horse of a breed originating in the Arabian peninsula is not sufficient. The Wikipedia article on this subject gives a good general background.

The Arabian is one of the oldest breeds of horse and retains very distinctive characteristics. Known for his high tail carriage, strong bone, refined head with wide jowl and small muzzle, and great endurance, the Arabian has contributed to the development of most other breeds of light saddle horses.

Diagram published in Arabian Horse World (June 1973) by Gladys Brown Edwards

Some desirable facial features include large eyes, a slight bulge in the forehead between the eyes (known as a jibbah, additional sinus capacity considered to be important for a desert breed), and a slight concavity, or dish, to the profile. Ears should be small, and it is considered attractive for them to be "tippy," meaning slightly curved:

Tippy ears and large eyes on the stallion Ferzon (b. 1952, Ferneyn x Fersara (by Ferseyn))

Very attractive head with relatively straight profile on the gelding El Sakkara (b. 1989, Serenity Monzeer x Namoura (by Ibn Morafic+++))

"Dishy" face with wide jowl and small muzzle on the mare Ansata Munira (b. 1996, Ansata Manasseh x Ansata Meryta (by Ansata Halim Shah))

Many Arabs (but not all) have only 5 lumbar vertebrae (instead of 6) and 17 pairs of ribs (rather than 18). A short, strong back helps the Arab carry relatively heavy loads for his size. The breed is typically on the small side, with some individuals under 14 hands, but it is still considered a horse rather than a pony. Modern Arabians can reach over 16 hands (although most are well under that height).

Arabians were bred to be war horses by the nomadic Bedouin tribes. The most prized mares were protected from theft by keeping them in the tent with the family. Such horses had to be docile enough for even children to handle them. However, in spite of a gentle nature, Arabians are considered a "hot-blooded" breed of horse because of their sensitivity and intelligence.

"Le cheval de Mustapha Pascha" by Antoine-Jean Groc (circa 1810)

Arabians as a breed are very versatile. They can be found in many disciplines, from racing (both flat track and endurance) to English and park classes to Western pleasure and reining. Currently, my personal Arabians are primarily trail horses, and they are well suited for that!

Starlite Duchess (b. 1998, Bahim of Century x Jemima of Century (by Faress Shade)) and Zeplin (b. 2006 ~97% Arabian, CR Royale Sands x CR Lady Lilac (by CR Royale Sands))

There is still plenty more to say, but this post is long enough for today. Stay tuned for many, many more pictures and other interesting information about this awesome breed :-)