An Arabian's most identifiable characteristics are its finely chiseled head, dished face, long arching neck, and high tail carriage. Characterized by its fine, chiseled appearance, the Arabian head is frequently enhanced by a slight protrusion over the forehead that extends to just below the eyes. The cheek bones are spread wide apart at the throat, enabling the muzzle to be drawn in without compressing the windpipe, and permitting the animal to breathe easily when running. The Arabian horse generally measures 14.1 to 15.1 hands at the withers, although many are above or below this height. In color, Arabians are bay, grey, chestnut and black, with an occasional roan.
Common markings are stars, strips, snips or blaze faces, and white feet or white stockings.
Today Today's Arabians are also recognized for their extraordinary intelligence, stamina, and trainability. Versatile and competent athletes, Arabians excel in a wide variety of activities. They are excellent on the trail as well as in the show ring. As an endurance horse, the Arabian has no equal. The top prizes at 100-mile endurance races almost always go to riders of Arabians.