Recommendation for a hunting horse breed?.

Question

Debating getting a horse for bow hunting with hounds. It seems that everyone has their own opinions as to what type of horse is best for hunting so I decided I'd ask for some people's opinions here. I'm thinking it may be less necessary to have a horse that reacts well to loud sounds since the dogs are sighthounds and it will be bows rather than rifles. The terrain is more than a little rough in places, so surefootedness and decent jumping are a must while top end speed is less important. The possible riders are between 175 and 225 pounds, but I intend on taking extended trips so there is a bit more weight for a bivy, bedroll and some other minor gear but it all weighs less than 25 pounds. This is just a early question, I will be doing a lot more research and/or taking classes before I actually buy a horse, but it would be nice to have a better idea on where to start looking.

Answer 1

Check out Irish Draught (Draft) horses.  It was the first breed that came to mind.  They are built well enough to carry heavier riders.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irish_Draug...

Never mind- I didn't read the whole question and thought you were talking about fox hunting.  My bad.

Answer 2

Any large, sturdy, easy going horse will do.  

Quarterhorse, draft cross, warmblood, anything.  

You might not think the reactions are that important since you're not using guns, but it really is just as important because you'll need to be able to trust the horse to stand while you use both hands on the bow, dogs will be running around it, and equipment might be flapping around on the saddle.  I think personality and size should be your primary concerns.

Answer 3

My first instinct is to tell you to get a draft cross, more specifically a 1/2 Clyde for rough terrain.  Draft crosses provide the height for easy jumps and can be burdened with the heavier loads more than warmbloods and thoroughbreds. I specifically mention the 1/2 Clydesdales because they were originally bred to work in rough terrain so they have a "flat" footfall which help to keep them from tripping.  Other than that, any variety of sport horse could do the trick! for heavier weight i just lean towards the draft cross.

Draft Crosses seem to be all the rage these days for amatures too!  They provide the size and athleticism of a competition horse without the hot temperament that comes with other breeds.  

Keep in mind draft crosses can be HUGE or pretty light depending on the combination of genes.  I used to ride a Clyde/TB (50/50) cross that looked like a light Clyde (feathers and all haha) at 16.3HH, and right now I'm helping a friend with a young (also 50/50) Percheron/TB cross that is just the prettiest dainty girl who looks like a big-boned Thoroughbred, so you can shop around for the "type" you like.

And although breed is important, I have met some "anti-steroetypes" of nearly every breed, so keep your eye open and try to get to know any horse you buy regardless of breeding.

Good luck!