What makes a Missouri Foxtrotter?

The Missouri Fox Trotter Gaits

1. Canter (breeding criterion)

The Canter is a three-beat gait, executed in a straight manner on either hand, smooth and flexible, with a long reach. Pumping, four-beat gallop or too much speed is not desirable.

2. Flat Foot Walk (breeding criterion)

The flat foot walk is a flat four-beat lateral gait. Over stride is desirable.

3. Foxtrot (breeding criterion)

The foxtrot, name-given for the breed, is a diagonal four-beat gait, where the front foot hits the ground split-second before the opposite rear foot. The head shakes in unison with the rhythm of the gait. The tail perfectly balances the movements of the head.

4. Gallop

The gallop is an extended four-beat gait as used for races but still smooth and with tender movements.

5. Running Walk

The running walk shows the same pattern as the flat foot walk but at a higher speed and with more over stride.

6. Single Foot

The single foot is an even four-beat gait with sometimes only a single foot on the ground (hence the name). This gait allows for rather high speed.

7. Walk

Walk is a natural, flat four beat gait at a low speed. The horse is awake; the length of the step is in a good proportion to the body of the horse.

Conformation

The Missouri Fox Trotting Horse should stand 14 to 16 hands in height, be of good conformation, and able to carry weight. The animal should stand well on its feet, be erect, wide awake and alert. The neck should be graceful, in proportion to length of body, and well-joined to body. The Missouri Fox Trotting Horse should have a neat, clean, intelligently-shaped head; pointed ears that are well-shaped; good, large, bright eyes; and a tapered muzzle. The back should be reasonably short and strong; the body deep and well-ribbed. The flank should be full; and the chest deep and full. The shoulders should be properly sloped and well-muscled. The legs should be muscular and well-tapered. The foot should be well-made, strong and in proper proportion to the size of the horse.

These qualities and virtues make the Missouri Fox Trotter unique as a Ranch, Trail, Pleasure, Endurance and Show-Horse.