The Ultimate Guide to Horse Names by Breed: Find the Ideal Name for Your Horse

To name a horse is groovy and far-out. The name you give often demonstrates your horse’s personality, what he looks like, or some heritage. Choosing from all those breeds and naming options can be quite the process. But fear not! In this buyer’s guide, we will provide a down-and-dirty list of the best horse names by breed, complete with origins and meanings where possible.

How to Choose the Perfect Horse Name by Breed and Personality

1. Arabian Horse Names

One of the most graceful, enduring, and purely elegant creatures in this world is the Arabian horse. Their lineage dates back to the Arabian Peninsula, where they developed several thousand years ago. After all, speed and power are traits we commonly associate with an Arabian.

• Azizah (Arabic) – Beloved. This would be a fantastic name for your horse if you know it shares a deep bond with its master.
• Zahra (Arabic) – Arabic for “flower,” a befitting name for a gentle, graceful mare.
• Sadiq (Arabic) – Meaning “faithful,” a perfect title for any horse you can rely on, even in a circus.
• Farid (Arabic) – Meaning “unique,” an ideal name for a one-of-a-kind racehorse in all the stables.

If you are considering the perfect name for an Arabian horse, think of names relating to their cultural origins or zealous spirit.

2. Thoroughbred Horse Names

Thoroughbreds are born to race, and their names commonly reflect their speed. They are athletic, active, and built to run.

• Blaze – This name is a common pick in popular street racing culture and stands for fast speed and fire. It suits a quick steed with a fiery spirit.
• Valor – Meaning courage and strength, this name is fitting for a mighty Thoroughbred with a brave heart.
• Windrunner – A more original name with speed and agility in mind, perfect for a horse associated with racing.
• Eclipse – Named after one of the best racehorses in history, this name is synonymous with winning and greatness.

Speed, Power, and Racing Heritage – all good qualities for a Thoroughbred name.

3. Clydesdale Horse Names

Clydesdale horses are heavy draft breeds best known for their enormous frame and placid attitude. Scottish in origin, these horses were historically used for managing lands and royal duties, so names of a grand or powerful nature are fitting.

• Fergus (Scottish) – A name that translates to “man of strength,” perfect for a resilient stallion.
• Bonnie (Scottish) – Meaning “beautiful” or “good,” this is a lovely fit for any mare who fits the description.
• Hugh (Scottish) – Meaning “heart” or “mind of spirit,” a great name for your regal horse.
• Thistle – Inspired by Scotland’s national flower, this is another excellent name for your Scottish horse.

Words that you might want to consider when naming a Clydesdale are strength, heritage, and tradition.

4. American Quarter Horse Names

The American Quarter Horse is a solidly built working and riding horse of great versatility, known for its agility at short distances. It may be more appropriate to choose a name that represents the Western origin of this versatile breed or one that speaks volumes about what they are.

• Dakota (Native American) – Meaning “friend” or “ally,” great for a trustworthy horse.
• Sundance – A cowboy name, perfect for the Western-loving owner.
• Buckshot – A strong name for any young horse, especially fast horses used in rodeos and competitions.
• Liberty – Reflects freedom and open spaces, ideal for a spirited horse with lots of heart.

For a Quarter Horse, you can think of names that showcase their American heritage and hardworking nature.

5. Friesian Horse Names

Friesians are black, bay, and occasionally chestnut-colored horses that come from the Netherlands. They are beautiful and graceful horses, suitable for dressage or carriage work.

• Zwart (Dutch) – Meaning “black,” a simple yet elegant name for a Friesian with a striking dark coat.
• Sterre (Dutch) – Meaning “star,” perfect for a horse that shines in competitions or shows.
• Epona (Celtic) – Named after the Celtic goddess of horses, a majestic name for a regal horse.
• Majestic – A fitting name for a Friesian, which often exudes grandeur and elegance in every movement.

Names for Friesians tend to emphasize their beauty and noble heritage.

6. Mustang Horse Names

Mustangs are America’s wild horses, free-spirited and untamed from the Wild West! Their names should sound tough, like a freedom fighter.

• Sierra – Inspired by the Sierra Nevada Mountain range, it is perfect for a fierce and adventure-bound horse.
• Cheyenne – Named after a Native American tribe, this makes for a strong, bold horse name.
• Freewind – Evoking fire, freedom, and a natural, untamed spirit, ideal for a wayward pony running wild into the hills.
• Comet – Represents speed and the might of the boundless universe, a perfect name for a fast and fiery Mustang.

These are natural names for Mustangs, with overtones of wild horses roaming the open country.

7. Shetland Pony Names

Shetland ponies are powerful horses who strut their tiny legs on the isles of Scotland. They’re known for being tough as nails and beloved by kids for their sweet, adorable little spirits.

• Pebble – A sweet name for such a stocky little pony.
• Heather – Named after the Scottish wildflowers, a delicate name for a pony with a gentle spirit, but powerful if she has to forge her way.
• Angus (Scottish) – Meaning “strength,” great for the Shetland who may be small in size but not in spirit.
• Buttons – A cute name for those playful little Shetland ponies that are always getting into something.

Shetland names are versatile, and they can be adorable, sweet, or a reflection of the pony’s tough yet playful character.

8. Gypsy Vanner Horse Names

Gypsy Vanners have long, flowing manes and feathers on their legs. These horses are traditionally used by the Romani people and are recognized for their calm, all-rounder temperament.

• Romany – A name to call this horse, as “Romani” means “Gypsy.”
• Velvet – Because it feels like their coat and mane are made of the same soft, silky material as your favorite old couch.
• Mystique – A name that captures the magical mysteries of Gypsy Vanners.
• Tinker – Refers to the breed’s origins and is also a term used for Romani people.

When considering a name, be sure to think of their beauty and what’s in your heart.

9. Icelandic Horse Names

Icelandic horses are known for their strength and great adaptation to the most severe environmental conditions.

• Saga (Icelandic) – Short, to the point, and fitting for a horse with a line of ancestors or a commanding presence worth talking about.
• Bjorn (Icelandic) – Great for a strong horse, as Björn means “bear.”
• Kelda (Icelandic) – If your horse is lively or hardworking, this name would be appropriate as it means “spring” or “fountain.”
• Thor (Norse) – Named after the Norse god known for his strength and might.

Icelandic horses are often given names from Norse mythology or names rooted in Icelandic culture, reflecting their strong heritage.

Horse Name Tips

When naming your horse, consider a few essential factors:

• Personality – Base your horse’s name on their personality. Is your horse quiet or wild, stubborn or sweet?
• Breed and cultural origin – Look to the breed and cultural origin of your horse. This adds more meaning to the name.
• Pronounceability – The name should be easy to pronounce, as you’ll be saying it a lot!
• Keep it short – Horses tend to respond better and faster to shorter names.

Conclusion

Whether you have an elegant Arabian, a strong Clydesdale, or even a fun little Shetland pony, the right name can help build a special bond with your horse. Every breed comes with its own history, character traits, and originality — the name should reflect these qualities. Take a cue from this guide and choose a name that suits both your horse and you in the best possible way. Happy naming!