The Barb is native to the Barbary states of North Africa. Barbs are known for their willing temperaments that are paired with hardiness, endurance, and speed. In fact, because of these desirable traits, the Barb was likely the mount used by the Moors for their invasion of Spain.
Muscular with a medium build, these light riding horses have a lower tail set and have longer hair around their fetlocks. Higher withers and a powerful front end speak to the breed’s sprinting ability, so it’s no surprise that Barb bloodlines were used in developing racing breeds like the Quarter Horse, Standardbred, and Thoroughbred.