Rocky Mountain Horse
Horse · Gaited · 1 live listings
A gaited horse from the Appalachians of eastern Kentucky, known for a smooth single-foot gait and a chocolate coat with flaxen mane. Rocky Mountains are calm, hardy and easy riders, and their signature color brings an eye risk.
At a glance
The tradeoffs, honestly
The silver gene behind the chocolate coat is linked to multiple congenital ocular anomalies (MCOA). Most affected horses see well, but an eye exam is worth doing before you buy.
Common questions
What health checks should a Rocky Mountain Horse have?
Ask for an eye exam by a vet as part of the pre-purchase exam, especially in silver-colored horses, to check for MCOA. A silver DNA test tells you if the horse carries one or two copies.
Is a Rocky Mountain Horse good for beginners?
Many are. The breed registry has emphasized calm temperament, and the smooth gait is comfortable. Take a few lessons on gaited horses first.
What is MCOA?
A set of eye abnormalities linked to the silver gene, from small cysts to larger defects. Horses with one copy usually have minor changes; two copies bring more, though many still see adequately.
Ask the seller for these. Documents on Everybarn are on file for your own checks; we don't check them with the issuer.
