As a gaited breed, the Tennessee Walking Horse is known for its movement. These gaits, unique to the breed, are inherited and should come relatively naturally to the horse. The three gaits are the flat walk, the running walk, and the rolling, “rocking chair” canter. In the ring, the Breed Association puts an emphasis on the style and form of the gait, as opposed to speed.

The hooves of a Tennessee Walking Horse are usually grown out and fitted with special shoes that are designed to support the lift of its action. The legs are hard and clean and the hind legs are particularly powerful. The head is plain, but large, and should move with the body as it walks, as though the horse is keeping its beat.

Today, the Tennessee Walking Horse is ideal as a recreational mount because of its smooth ride and docile and gentle temperament, but can often be seen in the show ring. The smooth gate and sweet disposition make it a favorite among equine enthusiasts. Because of its gentle nature, its a popular choice for new or nervous riders. It's said the horse can sense a reluctant rider, but rather than becoming skittish, it seems to take it easier, coaxing the novice into a comfortable pace.

The Tennessee Walking Horse is a composition of the thoroughbred, the Standardbred, the American Saddlebred stock and the Morgan. The horse developed, obviously, in Tennessee and this remains the centre of breeding. The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' Association is still headquartered in Lewisburg and the annual show still takes place every year in Shelbyville, TN.

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Tennessee Walking - Horses for Sale