Description of the gaits of the Missouri Foxtrotter

1. Canter (breeding target)
2. Flatfoot Walk (breeding target)
3. Foxtrot (breeding target)
4. Gallop
5. Running Walk
6. Single Foot
7. Walk

1. Canter (breeding target)
The Canter is a three-beat gate, executed in a straight manner on either hand, smooth and flexible, with a long reach. Pumping, four-beat Gallop or too much speed is not desirable.

2. Flatfoot Walk (breeding target)
The Flatfoot Walk is a flat four-beat lateral gate. Over stride is desirable.

3. Foxtrot (breeding target)
The Foxtrot, name-giving for the breed, is a diagonal four-beat gate, where the front foot hits the ground split-second before the opposite rear foot. The head nods in unison with the rhythm of the gate. The tail perfectly balances the movements of the head.

4. Gallop
The Gallop is an extended four-beat gate as used for races but still smooth and with tender movements.

5. Running Walk
The Running Walk shows the same pattern as the Flatfoot Walk but at a higher speed and with more over stride.

6. Single Foot
The Single-foot is an even four-beat gate with sometimes only a single foot on the ground (hence the name). This gate allows for rather high speed.

7. Walk
Walk is a natural, flat four-beat gait at a low speed. The horse is awake; the length of the step is in a good proportion to the body of the horse.