
These are a number of four-beat intermediate gaits with differences in footfall patterns and speed. This unusual gait allows the horse and rider to cover large distances comfortably. Whatever classification or categories are used, a consensus exists about what constitutes the different variations of gaits. Not all horses can perform an ambling gait, but many can be taught to produce them.Īnother method of classification uses the categories of: They are smooth and can be sustained for long periods of time making them desirable for trail riding and other tasks where a rider must spend long periods of time in the saddle. Typically, the major ambling gaits include:Īll ambling gaits are faster than a walk but usually slower than a canter.
#Horse walking sound full
Some individual horses and certain breeds may naturally have certain ambling gaits, but training is usually required for consistency and to take full advantage of the gaits. These "natural" gaits in increasing order of speed are:Īll four of these natural gaits are seen in wild horse populations and occur in nature in all horse breeds.Īmbling gaits include a collection of several smooth footfall patterns that often require special training of the horse before a rider can command them. Natural gaits occur in nearly all horses without any special training to encourage that particular pattern of movement. Classifications and horse gaitsĪll horse gaits can be roughly categorized into two groups: natural and ambling. With this in mind, breeding has created some strikingly different body types that produce the patterns of movement and gaits most suited to the job of the horse. One notably important conclusion drawn about horses is that the horse's desire can often supersede its physical limitations, opening new possibilities for many horses, riders and trainers.Īnother important conclusion drawn from years of study of horses is that different functions require different body mechanics. With pasterns as shock absorbers, long pasterns are sometimes considered best, but too much length can weaken the leg. In addition certain characteristics such as a long neck usually equates to a long stride and a moderately long back may be an advantage in a jumping horse although a short back is often deemed more desirable.

Years of study and observation of horses leads most authorities to the conclusion that some movements and rhythms are hard-wired into the brain of the horse. that produce gaits most suited to the job of the horse. Their usual mode of travel is to trot, which they do at various speeds, generally between 8 to 10 miles (12.8 to 16 kilometers) per hour.Breeding has created some strikingly different body types. Their legs are long, and they walk at about 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) per hour, but can reach speeds of 35 mph during a chase. They will use different gaits according to their needs. They most often travel in a trot (equivalent to a human jog), either a side trot or a direct register trot.

Gaits: Wolves are built to travel long distances. "I knew the wolves were getting closer as their galloping was getting louder and louder."Ī couple of wolf-related websites say that "gallop" is an appropriate term in this context.Īlderleaf Wilderness College: Wold Tracks & Sign Although this word is usually associated with horses, you can use it for other four-legged animals: gallopĪ fast gait of the horse or other quadruped in which, in the course of each stride, all four feet are off the ground at once. Here's a word that may be useful in describing the sound. Maybe you're looking for thump or thumping?

I'm not sure there's a word that specifically describes the sound of wolves feet colliding with the ground.
