Equine encyclopedia

Dressage Horses

Discover the main dressage horse breeds, from modern sport horses to Iberian breeds. Compare their origins, conformation, gaits and abilities to better understand which profiles are suited to leisure riding, classical equitation and competition.

99 breeds listed

35 countries represented

5 equine categories

Leisure → sport profiles for different levels

Featured Dressage Horse Breeds

A selection of breeds with illustrated, detailed profiles.

Turkmenistan Riding Horse 155–163 cm Dressage Endurance Riding Equestrian Show

Akhal-Teke

The Akhal-Teke, a 3,000-year-old breed from Turkmenistan, captivates with its unique golden coat and legendary endurance. Discover one of the oldest horse breeds in the world.

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Portugal Riding Horse 155–165 cm Dressage Cattle Work Equestrian Show

Alter Real

Discover the Alter Real, an elegant and powerful Portuguese baroque horse, descendant of the Lusitano, admired in classical dressage and haute école.

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United States Riding Horse 145–165 cm Vaulting Driving Dressage

American Paint Horse

The Paint Horse, an American breed recognized for its pinto coat and versatility, excels in western riding, leisure, and competitions.

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Chestnut Quarter Horse gelding in Texas. The highly developed hindquarters are characteristic. - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Betty Wills (Atsme)

United States Riding Horse 142–163 cm Dressage Show Jumping TREC

American Quarter Horse

The Quarter Horse is the ultimate American horse, famous for its power, sprinting speed, and exceptional versatility.

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United States Gaited Horse 150–170 cm Driving Dressage Trail Riding

American Saddlebred

Discover the American Saddlebred, an elegant and expressive saddle horse, famous for its high-stepping gaits and iconic role in equestrian shows.

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United States Riding Horse 155–178 cm Driving Dressage Show Jumping

American Warmblood

Versatile, athletic and high-performing, the American Warmblood excels in equestrian sports. Discover its origins, temperament and strengths.

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Understanding Dressage Horses

Dressage horses are generally valued for the quality of their gaits, natural balance, willingness and ability to collect. Depending on the breed, they may be more athletic, elegant or powerful, but they share an aptitude for performing precise movements with harmony.

Their development reflects the history of classical, military and later competitive riding. Some breeds were selected for greater elasticity, engagement of the hindquarters and regularity of movement, qualities that are especially valued in dressage.

Today, dressage horses are found in top-level competition, advanced leisure riding, technical instruction and flatwork. They also play an important role in many equestrian disciplines where the quality of movement is essential.

All Dressage Horse Breeds

99 results

Akhal-Teke

Turkmenistan

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 155 to 163 cm

Dressage Endurance Riding Equestrian Show Horse racing

The Akhal-Teke, a 3,000-year-old breed from Turkmenistan, captivates with its unique golden coat and legendary endurance. Discover one of the oldest h…

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Alter Real

Portugal

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 155 to 165 cm

Dressage Cattle Work Equestrian Show Riding School

Discover the Alter Real, an elegant and powerful Portuguese baroque horse, descendant of the Lusitano, admired in classical dressage and haute école.

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American Paint Horse

United States

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 145 to 165 cm

Vaulting Driving Dressage Show Jumping

The Paint Horse, an American breed recognized for its pinto coat and versatility, excels in western riding, leisure, and competitions.

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American Quarter Horse

United States

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 142 to 163 cm

Dressage Show Jumping TREC Trail Riding

The Quarter Horse is the ultimate American horse, famous for its power, sprinting speed, and exceptional versatility.

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American Saddlebred

United States

Category : Gaited Horse

Height : 150 to 170 cm

Driving Dressage Trail Riding Equestrian Show

Discover the American Saddlebred, an elegant and expressive saddle horse, famous for its high-stepping gaits and iconic role in equestrian shows.

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American Warmblood

United States

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 155 to 178 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Trail Riding

Versatile, athletic and high-performing, the American Warmblood excels in equestrian sports. Discover its origins, temperament and strengths.

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Anglo-Arab

France

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 155 to 170 cm

Vaulting Driving Dressage Show Jumping

The Anglo-Arab is an elegant and athletic horse, renowned for its versatility in competition and its noble origins.

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Appaloosa

United States

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 142 to 163 cm

Dressage Show Jumping Endurance Riding Trail Riding

Why is the Appaloosa unique? Discover its spotted coat, temperament, origin and uses in western riding and more.

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Grey Persian Arabian horse at a parade in Nishapur - CC0 - Sonia Sevilla

Arabe Persan - Pur-sang Arabe d’Iran

Iran

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 145 to 155 cm

Vaulting Driving Dressage Show Jumping

Discover the Persian Arabian horse, a living treasure of Iran: unique beauty, exceptional resilience, and a major influence on the world’s greatest br…

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Grey Arabian mare in Egypt, in front of one of the pyramids of Giza. - CC PAR 3.0 - Yana B

Arabian Horse

Saudi Arabia

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 145 to 155 cm

Driving Dressage Endurance Riding Trail Riding

Discover the Arabian Horse, a legendary breed renowned for its exceptional endurance, distinctive beauty, and influence on modern horse breeds.

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Australian Riding Pony

Australia

Category : Pony

Height : 127 to 147 cm

Vaulting Driving Dressage Show Jumping

Discover the Australian Riding Pony, an elegant pony standing 127 to 147 cm and around 275 kg, prized in Australia for leisure riding and competition …

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Australian Stock Horse

Australia

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 145 to 163 cm

Dressage Show Jumping Endurance Riding Equestrian Show

Discover the Australian Stock Horse, a versatile Australian breed. Size, weight, build, and key traits of this exceptional horse.

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Austrian Warmblood

Austria

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 158 to 168 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Leisure

The Austrian Warmblood blends Nonius, Shagya and Trakehner bloodlines from the imperial Austro-Hungarian studs. Selectively bred since 1964 for show j…

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Barock Pinto

Netherlands

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 155 to 170 cm

Vaulting Driving Dressage Show Jumping

The Barock Pinto is a horse bred from the crossing of the Friesian and piebald horses. Elegant, powerful and colorful, it excels in driving, dressage …

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Marcus Ehning and Noltes Küchengirl at CHI Geneva 2013 - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Clément Bucco-Lechat

Bavarian Warmblood

Germany

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 158 to 170 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Leisure

The Bavarian Warmblood, descended from the near-extinct Rottaler, excels in show jumping, dressage and eventing. A top Olympic sport horse bred in Bav…

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Budyonny horse - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Fefa Koroleva

Budyonny horse - Boudionnovskaïa lochad

Russia

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 158 to 170 cm

Dressage Show Jumping Endurance Riding Trail Riding

Discover the Budyonny horse, a strong and elegant Russian breed born from the cross between the English Thoroughbred and local Don mares.

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Calabrese horse

Italy

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 150 to 165 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Trail Riding

Discover the Calabrese horse, an Italian breed from Calabria, admired for its elegance, agility, and qualities in sport and traditional riding.

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Campolina

Brazil

Category : Gaited Horse

Height : 150 to 160 cm

Driving Dressage Equestrian Show Leisure

Discover the Campolina, a refined and comfortable Brazilian horse, valued for leisure riding, farm work, and gaited competitions.

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Canadian Horse

Canada

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 142 to 162 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Trail Riding

Why is the Canadian horse so special? Strong, versatile and gentle, discover this iconic Quebec breed and its many qualities.

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Canadian Sport Horse

Canada

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 162 to 165 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Trail Riding

Developed from European bloodlines, the Canadian Sport Horse combines strength, agility and balance, ideal for show jumping, dressage and eventing.

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Grey Chartreux at piaffe - CC BY 2.0 - Nordlicht8

Cartujano - Carthusian Spanish horse

Spain

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 150 to 157 cm

Driving Dressage Trail Riding Equestrian Show

Discover the Cartujano horse, a prestigious lineage of the Pure Spanish Breed. History, morphology, temperament, and role in classical equestrian arts…

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Caspian

Iran

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 100 to 122 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Endurance Riding

The Caspian is a rare horse breed from Iran. Discover its fascinating history, temperament, athletic abilities, and ancient origins.

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Cleveland Bay

United Kingdom

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 163 to 168 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Trail Riding

Discover the Cleveland Bay, a rare and elegant English horse breed renowned for its endurance, prestigious carriage-driving abilities, and unique hist…

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Colorado Ranger

United States

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 145 to 165 cm

Dressage Show Jumping Trail Riding Cattle Work

Discover the Colorado Ranger, an American horse known for its versatility, strength, and the refined elegance inherited from its Arabian and Quarter H…

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Connemara Pony

Ireland

Category : Pony

Height : 128 to 148 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Trail Riding

The Connemara, Ireland's only native breed, descends from Viking ponies and Andalusian horses from the 1588 Spanish Armada shipwreck. Olympic medallis…

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Czech Sport Pony – Český sportovní pony

Czech Republic

Category : Pony

Height : 111 to 148 cm

Vaulting Driving Dressage Show Jumping

Discover the Czech Sport Pony, a versatile and athletic breed, ideal for children’s riding and pony sport competitions.

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Danish warmblood, bay-brown coat, model - CC BY-SA 4.0 -Nicole Slanařová

Danish Warmblood – Dansk Varmblod

Denmark

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 165 to 175 cm

Dressage Show Jumping Trail Riding Riding School

The Danish Warmblood is an athletic sport horse, renowned in dressage and show jumping, and originally bred in Denmark.

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History of the Danube breed presented at the Kabiuk Stud Horse Museum - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Izvora

Danubian

Bulgaria

Category : Draft Horse

Height : 160 to 163 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Draft Work

Danubian horse: a light Bulgarian draft breed known for its strength, docility, and use in traction and driving. History, build, temperament, and futu…

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East Bulgarian

Bulgaria

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 150 to 160 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Trail Riding

Learn about the East Bulgarian Horse, a rare sport breed from the Balkans, with its history, traits, and uses in equestrian sports.

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Einsiedler

Switzerland

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 155 to 165 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Leisure

Discover the Einsiedeln horse, a Swiss breed from the monastery stud, valued for its robustness, versatility, and centuries-old history.

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Fell Pony

United Kingdom

Category : Pony

Height : 132 to 142 cm

Driving Dressage TREC Trail Riding

Discover the Fell Pony, a British pony renowned for its hardiness, calm temperament, endurance, and talents in driving and trail riding.

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Finnish bay warmblood trotting - CC BY-SA 2.0 - Sini Merikallio

Finnish Warmblood – Suomenpuoliverinen – FWB

Finland

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 158 to 172 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Riding School

Discover the Finnish Warmblood (FWB), an elegant and athletic sport horse breed from Finland, ideal for dressage and show jumping.

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Fjord

Norway

Category : Primitive Horse

Height : 135 to 140 cm

Vaulting Driving Dressage TREC

Fjord horse, a hardy breed from Norway, known for its strength, calm nature, and distinctive two-tone mane.

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Frederiksborg

Denmark

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 155 to 165 cm

Driving Dressage Equestrian Show Leisure

The Frederiksborg, founded in 1562, holds the world's oldest studbook for any domestic animal. Ancestor of the Lipizzaner, this rare Danish royal bree…

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Nepal, Franches-Montagnes stallion owned by the Swiss National Stud (SNS). - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Swiss National Stud (SNS)

Freiberger | Franches-Montagnes

Switzerland

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 150 to 162 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping TREC

Discover the Franches-Montagnes horse, a versatile Swiss breed, ideal for driving, trekking, and leisure riding.

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Automne, a strawberry roan French Saddle Pony, in Brittany. - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Tsaag Valren

French Saddle Pony | PFS

France

Category : Pony

Height : up to 148 cm

Dressage Show Jumping Leisure Eventing

Discover the French Saddle Pony, a versatile sport pony prized for show jumping, dressage and eventing.

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Friesian

Netherlands

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 155 to 170 cm

Driving Dressage Equestrian Show

The Friesian, an iconic breed from the Netherlands, stuns with its jet-black coat, flowing mane, and remarkable talent in driving and dressage. Discov…

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Furioso at the model, in Poland - GFDL - JoRe

Furioso-North Star

Hungary

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 155 to 170 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Riding School

Discover the Furioso-North Star horse, a Hungarian warmblood breed from 19th-century English lines, renowned for carriage driving, sport riding, and H…

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Pair of harnessed Gelderland - Public domain - Xocolatl

Gelderlander

Netherlands

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 160 to 172 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Equestrian Show

Discover the Gelderland horse, descended from the Guelders horse: a Dutch breed both elegant and powerful, renowned for driving and sport.

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Gidran

Hungary

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 155 to 170 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Endurance Riding

Discover the Gidran horse, a rare Hungarian half-bred with oriental and Arabian roots. Medium size 155–170 cm, weight 450–600 kg. Noble, versatile, an…

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Groningen

Netherlands

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 160 to 170 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Trail Riding

The Groningen horse is a Dutch breed known for its strength, elegance, and versatility in driving, dressage, and leisure riding.

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A model of a piebald Irish Cob with its characteristic abundant mane, at a show in Prague, Czech Republic. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Karakal

Gypsy Cob – Irish Cob – Gypsy Vanner (Tinker)

Ireland

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 135 to 160 cm

Vaulting Driving Dressage Show Jumping

Why is the Irish Cob so loved? Gentle, hardy and versatile, this horse with abundant feathering is ideal for riding and driving.

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Hackney Pony

United Kingdom

Category : Pony

Height : 122 to 147 cm

Driving Dressage Equestrian Show Riding School

Why is the Hackney Pony one of the most impressive driving ponies? Discover its history, temperament, and outstanding qualities.

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Haflinger

Austria

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 137 to 149 cm

Vaulting Driving Dressage Endurance Riding

The Haflinger is a golden Tyrolean horse with flaxen mane, descending from the stallion Folie. Hardy, gentle and versatile, ideal for leisure riding a…

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Hanoverian

Germany

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 160 to 170 cm

Vaulting Driving Dressage Show Jumping

Discover the Hanoverian, a German warmblood renowned for its strength, elegance, and excellence in dressage, jumping, and eventing.

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Hispano-Arabe horse mounted in Doma vaquera - CC BY-SA 2.0 - Manuel Gómez

Hispano-arabe | Aralusian

Spain

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 158 to 160 cm

Dressage Show Jumping Endurance Riding TREC

Discover the Hispano-Arabian, also known as the Aralusian, a Spanish sport horse from PRE and Arabian bloodlines, valued for doma vaquera, endurance a…

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Holsteiner

Germany

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 165 to 175 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Equestrian Show

Discover the Holsteiner horse, a German breed known for its strength, elegance, and outstanding abilities in show jumping.

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Hungarian Half-Blood - Félvér Magyar - CC BY-SA 4.0 - A fényképezőgépem memóriakártyájáról

Hungarian Half-bred – Magyar félvér

Hungary

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 155 to 165 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Trail Riding

Discover the Hungarian Half-bred, or Magyar félvér, a versatile, elegant and robust Hungarian horse breed, used in sport and leisure riding.

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Icelandic

Iceland

Category : Gaited Horse

Height : 128 to 148 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Trail Riding

Discover the Icelandic Horse, Iceland’s iconic breed, renowned for its unique gaits (tölt and pace), hardiness, and gentle temperament. Complete infor…

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Irish Draft Stallion - CC BY 2.5 - Losmurfs

Irish Draught

Ireland

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 155 to 173 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Cattle Work

Ireland's national horse, the Irish Draught plowed fields by week and hunted on Saturdays. Father of the Irish Sport Horse, it is now listed as endang…

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Paul Estermann and Castlefield Eclipse, ISH mare - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Clément Bucco-Lechat

Irish Sport Horse - Hunter Irlandais

Ireland

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 160 to 170 cm

Dressage Show Jumping Trail Riding Leisure

Discover the Irish Hunter, a sport horse from Ireland. Height 1.60–1.70 m, weight 500–600 kg. Athletic and versatile, it excels in eventing, jumping, …

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Karabakh

Azerbaijan

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 142 to 155 cm

Dressage Endurance Riding Trail Riding Equestrian Show

Discover the Karabakh horse, Azerbaijan’s emblematic breed, famed for its golden coat, endurance, speed, and unique cultural heritage.

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A picture of Whiskey, who is a "Kisbéri félvér" gelding. - CC BY-SA 4.0 - A fényképezőgépem memóriakártyájáról

Kisber Felver

Hungary

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 160 to 170 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Equestrian Show

Discover the Kisber Felver horse, an elegant and versatile Hungarian breed from the Kisbér stud. History, uses, physical traits, and breeding areas.

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Kladruber

Czech Republic

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 160 to 170 cm

Driving Dressage Equestrian Show Leisure

Discover the Kladruber, a Czech baroque carriage horse, renowned for its power, elegance, and distinctive gray and black coats.

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Knabstrup

Denmark

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 150 to 160 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Leisure

Discover the Knabstrup (Knabstrupper), a unique Danish horse breed with a spotted coat: standard, temperament, breeding areas & official association.

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Ace of Bask, a typical example of a Koheilan-lined stallion. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Kuhailan

Koheilan - Lineage

Saudi Arabia

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 145 to 152 cm

Dressage Endurance Riding Trail Riding Equestrian Show

Koheilan lineage, an Arabian horse from Nejd known for its strength, genetic purity, and influence on European horse breeds.

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KWPN

Netherlands

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 160 to 175 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Equestrian Show

The KWPN, a renowned Dutch warmblood, excels in show jumping, dressage and driving. Carefully selected for performance and sporting elegance.

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Landais pony

France

Category : Pony

Height : 118 to 148 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Endurance Riding

Discover the Landais Pony, a rare and versatile French breed, ideal for driving, trekking, and children's riding.

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Latvian horse

Latvia

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 155 to 165 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Trail Riding

Discover the Latvian Horse, a versatile breed from Latvia, robust and elegant, used for driving, equestrian sports, and agricultural work.

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Lipizzan

Slovenia

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 155 to 165 cm

Vaulting Driving Dressage Trail Riding

The Lipizzan fascinates with its white coat, natural grace and mastery of classical dressage. The legendary horse of the Spanish Riding School of Vien…

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Lusitano horse in traditional riding. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Lbpetersen

Lusitano (Purebred)

Portugal

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 155 to 170 cm

Driving Dressage Trail Riding Cattle Work

Why is the Lusitano so valued in dressage? Elegant and versatile, discover this Portuguese horse and its unique qualities.

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Luxembourg Warmblood

Luxembourg

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 160 to 170 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Leisure

The Luxembourg Warmblood, developed from Hanoverian and Holsteiner bloodlines, stands out for its performance-based studbook selection. A versatile sp…

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Mangalarga Marchador

Brazil

Category : Gaited Horse

Height : 142 to 152 cm

Dressage Show Jumping TREC Cattle Work

Discover the Mangalarga Marchador, a Brazilian horse renowned for its smooth gaits, elegance, and exceptional endurance.

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Maremmien ridden by a buttero, model, side view. Equitana Show 2005. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - BS Thurner Hof

Maremmano

Italy

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 155 to 170 cm

Dressage Show Jumping Cattle Work Riding School

Discover the Maremmano horse, an emblematic breed of Tuscany and Lazio. Height 1.55–1.70 m, weight 500–650 kg. Robust, elegant, and enduring, used for…

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Marwari

India

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 150 to 163 cm

Driving Dressage Endurance Riding Trail Riding

Marwari, a saddle horse from India known for its inward-curving ears, endurance, and graceful appearance.

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The Mecklenburg Principal 12 ridden by Martin Fuchs at the 2013 Geneva International Horse Show - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Clément Bucco-Lechat

Mecklenburger

Germany

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 160 to 175 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Riding School

Learn all about the Mecklenburger, a renowned German sport horse known for its athleticism, temperament, conformation, and success in equestrian disci…

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Minorquin

Spain

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 151 to 170 cm

Driving Dressage Trail Riding Equestrian Show

Discover the Minorquin, an elegant black horse from Menorca, known for dressage, equestrian shows and its major role in the island’s festivals.

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Morab

United States

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 145 to 160 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Endurance Riding

Why is the Morab so popular? This Morgan–Arabian cross offers elegance, endurance and versatility.

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Morgan

United States

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 145 to 157 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Trail Riding

Discover the Morgan horse, an American breed renowned for its elegance, strength, and versatility, descended from the legendary stallion Figure.

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Murgese

Italy

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 145 to 165 cm

Driving Dressage Trail Riding Cattle Work

The Murgese, black Apulian horse descended from Barb and Andalusian bloodlines since the 15th century, is an ancestor of the Lipizzaner. Raised semi-w…

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New Forest

United Kingdom

Category : Pony

Height : 122 to 148 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Trail Riding

Discover the New Forest Pony, a versatile British breed from Hampshire, standing 122–148 cm and weighing 300–450 kg. Origin, uses, colors, and semi-wi…

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Nonius

Hungary

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 155 to 165 cm

Driving Dressage Trail Riding Equestrian Show

Discover the Nonius horse, a robust and elegant Hungarian breed from the Mezőhegyes stud. Valued for versatility, endurance, and a docile nature, it r…

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Curly horse in palomino dress. - CC BY-SA 2.0 - Ron Manke

North American Curly Horse

United States

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 142 to 163 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Endurance Riding

Discover the North American Curly Horse, a hardy and hypoallergenic breed known for its unique curly coat, intelligence, and gentle temperament.

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Oldenburg

Germany

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 165 to 178 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Trail Riding

The Oldenburg is a German sport horse renowned for its talent in show jumping, dressage, and driving.

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Orlov-Rostopchin

Russia

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 158 to 168 cm

Dressage Show Jumping Equestrian Show Riding School

Discover the Orlov-Rostopchin, a Russian riding horse born from prestigious crosses. Elegant, powerful and enduring, it excels in sport and dressage.

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Pleven at Kabiuk stud, chestnut, model - CC BY 2.0 - Plamen Ivanov

Pleven (Horse of)

Bulgaria

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 160 to 163 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Endurance Riding

Learn all about the Pleven: standards, history, behavior, breeding, and future of this Bulgarian warmblood horse recognized for equestrian sport.

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Pottok

France

Category : Pony

Height : 115 to 147 cm

Driving Dressage Endurance Riding TREC

The Pottok is a hardy pony from the Basque Country, known for its freedom, strength, and use in trekking and riding schools.

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Pura Raza Española (PRE) - Andalusian horse

Spain

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 155 to 165 cm

Driving Dressage Cattle Work Equestrian Show

The Andalusian horse (PRE) is renowned for its elegance, gentle temperament and expressive gaits. Discover its role in dressage and Spanish riding tra…

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Rhenish Warmblood

Germany

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 158 to 172 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Riding School

The Rhenish Warmblood, a modern German sport horse from the 1970s, captivates with its long elastic gaits. Bred at Warendorf State Stud, it excels in …

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Chestnut Don horse with a glossy sheen. - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Fefa Koroleva

Russian Don

Russia

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 155 to 165 cm

Dressage Endurance Riding TREC Trail Riding

Discover the Don horse, a Russian breed renowned for its endurance, versatility, and historical heritage linked to the Cossacks.

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Salernitano

Italy

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 155 to 168 cm

Dressage Show Jumping Trail Riding Equestrian Show

Discover the Salernitano horse, an elegant and athletic Italian breed from Campania. Height, weight, traits, history, uses, studbook, and breeding pro…

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Hello Sanctos, famous sBs gelding, ridden by Scott Brash at the CHI Geneva in 2014 - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Clément Bucco-Lechat

SBS – Belgian Sport Horse

Belgium

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 158 to 180 cm

Dressage Show Jumping Riding School Leisure

The SBS, founded in 1920 as a cavalry horse, nearly vanished during World War II. Awarded Royal status in 1967, it now dominates international show ju…

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Italian eventing rider Luisa Palli and Lalia della Nave at the 2011 European Eventing Championship in Luhmühlen (show jumping phase). - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Steinfurth (Nordlicht8)

Sella Italiano

Italy

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 158 to 170 cm

Dressage Show Jumping Trail Riding Riding School

Discover the Italian Warmblood, an elegant and athletic sport horse, valued for show jumping, dressage, and eventing.

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Selle Français

France

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 160 to 175 cm

Vaulting Driving Dressage Show Jumping

The Selle Français, France's premier sport horse, excels in show jumping and dressage at the highest level. Discover the origins, morphology and chara…

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Shagya

Hungary

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 152 to 165 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Endurance Riding

Discover the Shagya horse, a Hungarian breed of Arabian origin, renowned for its elegance, versatility, endurance and genetic importance.

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Silesian bay working on a lunge line - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Katrina Swinnley

Silesian Warmblood - Slaski

Poland

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 158 to 170 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Equestrian Show

Discover the Silesian horse, a Polish improved draft breed, renowned for its strength, elegance, and versatility in driving and agricultural work.

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Slovak Warmblood – Slovenský teplokrevník

Slovakia

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 159 to 180 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Trail Riding

Discover the Slovak Warmblood, a sport horse from Slovakia, renowned for its elegance, strength, and versatility in equestrian competitions.

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Slovenian Warmblood – Slovenski Toplokrvni Konj

Slovenia

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 160 to 170 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Trail Riding

Discover the Slovenian Warmblood, a Slovenian warmblood horse combining hardiness and athletic ability, excelling in dressage, driving and show jumpin…

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Swedish Warmblood – Svenskt Varmblod

Sweden

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 160 to 170 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Riding School

Discover the Swedish Warmblood, a versatile sport horse from Sweden, renowned for its abilities in show jumping, dressage, and eventing.

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Swiss Warmblood horse, Pénélope Leprevost and Cayman Athletic CH - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Clément Bucco-Lechat

Swiss Warmblood - Schweizer Warmblut

Switzerland

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 155 to 165 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Trail Riding

Discover the Swiss Warmblood, a versatile sport horse combining power, elegance and reliability, excelling in dressage, jumping and eventing.

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Thoroughbred

United Kingdom

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 150 to 1720 cm

Dressage Show Jumping Trail Riding Equestrian Show

Exceptional speed, English origin, star of horse racing: discover the Thoroughbred, the most iconic racehorse in the world of gallop racing.

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Trakehner

Germany

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 160 to 172 cm

Vaulting Driving Dressage Show Jumping

The Trakehner, world's oldest warmblood breed, survived the 1000 km Great Trek in WW2. An Olympic champion since 1924, excelling in dressage, jumping …

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Ukrainian Riding Horse

Ukraine

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 160 to 170 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Leisure

Discover the Ukrainian Riding Horse, a sport breed from Ukraine known for its power, elegance, and excellent performance in dressage and show jumping.

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Welsh Cob

United Kingdom

Category : Pony

Height : 145 to 155 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Equestrian Show

Discover the Welsh Cob, a robust and elegant Welsh pony, ideal for driving, riding, and leisure. Originating from Wales, it combines strength and char…

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Welsh B in CSO - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Elevage de maika

Welsh Pony Section B

United Kingdom

Category : Pony

Height : 127 to 137 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping TREC

The Welsh Section B, an elegant and athletic Welsh pony, nearly faced extinction under a 16th-century Tudor law. Gentle and versatile, it is today the…

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Westphalian

Germany

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 165 to 175 cm

Vaulting Dressage Show Jumping Equestrian Show

The Westphalian is a German sport horse breed known for its talent in dressage and show jumping, closely related to the Hanoverian.

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Wielkopolski

Poland

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 165 to 170 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Trail Riding

Discover the Wielkopolski, an elegant and robust Polish horse, valued for its versatility in equestrian sports, driving, and leisure riding.

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Württembergers - Public Domain - Xocolatl

Wurttemberger

Germany

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 160 to 175 cm

Vaulting Driving Dressage Show Jumping

Württemberg – Elegant and sporty breed, ideal for dressage, jumping and driving.

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Zangersheide

Belgium

Category : Riding Horse

Height : 165 to 175 cm

Driving Dressage Show Jumping Trail Riding

History, conformation, temperament, breeding and performance: discover why the Zangersheide is one of the world's most sought-after sport horses.

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Dressage Articles

Explore the subject further with a selection of dressage articles.

Young horse being lunged during a training session in an outdoor arena

How does dressage training begin for a young horse?

Discover how dressage training really begins for a young horse: breaking, balance, musculature, mindset, and the first foundations of ridden work…

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Black dressage horse performing a collected movement with its rider during an indoor competition

Why do some dressage horses cost millions ?

Discover why some dressage horses are worth millions: genetics, performance, training, rarity, and the international dressage market.

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Dressage horse performing a flying change with its rider in an outdoor arena

How do horses learn flying changes ?

Discover how horses learn flying changes: balance, canter quality, coordination, dressage training, and the rider’s role in this advanced exercis…

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Dressage horse with an arched neck working in an arena with its rider

What is a horse “on the bit”?

Discover what a horse “on the bit” really means in dressage: impulsion, balance, contact, engagement, and common misconceptions about frame and p…

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Dressage, passage Trakhener - CC BY-SA 3.0 - BS Thurner Hof

What is passage in dressage ?

Discover what passage is in dressage: how it works, its origins, the role of collection, and why this movement is so technical and spectacular.

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A rider and their top-level dressage horse perform a series of movements on which they will be judged. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Nordlicht8

Why do dressage horses have such arched necks?

Discover why dressage horses have arched necks: balance, collection, musculature, genetics, and the biomechanics behind dressage training.

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Jessica von Bredow-Werndl (GER) and TSF Dalera BB during the freestyle test of the Grand Prix Final Individual Dressage, Paris 2024 Olympic Games - CC BY 4.0 - Eponimm

How does dressage scoring work ?

Discover how dressage scoring works: marks, judging criteria, coefficients, final score calculation, and mistakes that lower scores.

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A rider from the Cadre Noir performing a piaffe. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Alain Laurioux

What is piaffe in dressage ?

Discover what piaffe is in dressage: how it works, its origins, the role of collection, and why this movement is so technical and spectacular.

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Explore Other Equestrian Disciplines

FAQ — Dressage Horses

What is a dressage horse?

A dressage horse is particularly suited to flatwork and is valued for its balance, suppleness, regularity and ability to perform precise movements harmoniously.

What qualities are sought in a dressage horse?

The most valued qualities include expressive and regular gaits, engagement of the hindquarters, balance, suppleness, concentration, willingness and the ability to collect.

What are the main dressage horse breeds?

Breeds commonly associated with dressage include the Hanoverian, Dutch Warmblood (KWPN), Oldenburg, Lusitano, PRE and some Selle Français bloodlines.

Is dressage limited to specific breeds?

No. Horses of many breeds can practise dressage, although some have been selected more specifically for natural abilities suited to the discipline.

Can dressage horses compete in other disciplines?

Yes. Depending on their individual profile, many dressage horses can also take part in leisure riding, eventing, working equitation and other disciplines.

What is the difference between a dressage horse and a show-jumping horse?

A dressage horse is primarily selected for quality of movement, balance and precision, while a show-jumping horse is more strongly selected for power, scope, trajectory and jumping technique.

Are Iberian horses good at dressage?

Yes. Iberian breeds such as the Lusitano and PRE are often appreciated for their balance, agility and natural ease in collected dressage movements.

Does a dressage horse need extravagant gaits?

Expressive gaits can be an advantage, but they are not enough on their own. Balance, regularity, trainability and the ability to collect are equally important.

Are dressage horses suitable for amateur riders?

Some are very suitable for amateur riders, provided that the horse's temperament, training level and sensitivity match the rider's experience.

What temperament is expected from a dressage horse?

A dressage horse is generally expected to be attentive, willing and sensitive without becoming unmanageable, while remaining mentally available during work.

What is dressage training useful for?

Dressage improves balance, suppleness, coordination, responsiveness to the aids and the overall quality of the horse's movement.

Can a dressage horse be used for leisure riding?

Yes. Many dressage-oriented horses can also suit leisure riding, light hacking or everyday flatwork, depending on their temperament and training.

How much does a dressage horse cost?

Prices vary greatly according to breed, age, bloodlines, training level and competition record. They may range from a few thousand euros to far higher amounts for highly accomplished horses.

Is dressage useful outside competition?

Yes. Dressage provides an important foundation for improving communication, balance and the quality of work, even when the horse is never entered in competition.

Which dressage horse is best for a beginner?

The horse's temperament, age, training and experience matter more than breed alone. A calm, reliable and well-schooled horse is generally more suitable than a young, highly sensitive or energetic horse.

Which dressage horse suits an amateur rider?

An amateur rider will often benefit from a dependable, willing and forgiving horse with comfortable gaits and an appropriate level of training. Some very powerful sport-horse bloodlines may require more experience.