Equine Encyclopedia

Driving Horses

Discover the main driving horse breeds, from lively ponies to powerful draft horses. Compare their origins, conformation, temperament, and abilities to understand which profiles are suited to recreational driving, traditional carriage driving, work, or competition.

160 breeds listed
48 countries represented
8 equid categories
Leisure → sport from leisure to work and sport

Driving horse breeds to discover

A selection of breeds historically or currently used to pull carriages, carts, and other horse-drawn vehicles.

American Cream Draft Horse - CC BY 2.0 - Just chaos
United States Draft Horse 152–170 cm Driving Trail Riding Riding School

American Cream Draft

Strength, gentleness, and a remarkable coat: discover the history and characteristics of the American Cream Draft, an iconic American horse breed.

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American Miniature Horse - CC BY 3.0 - Larrywalmart
United States Miniature Horse 70–86 cm Driving Equestrian Show Riding School

American Miniature

Discover the American Miniature Horse, an elegant and intelligent miniature horse under 86 cm tall, admired for its beauty and gentle temperament.

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American Paint Horse - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Karakal
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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American Saddlebred practicing the rack. - CC BY 2.0 - Heather Moreton
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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Two-year-old American Warmblood filly - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Lar
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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Anglo-Arab Gray - Public domain - Wikikoko
France Riding Horse 155–170 cm Vaulting Driving Dressage

Anglo-Arab

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

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Understanding driving horses

Driving horses are valued for their strength, endurance, regular gaits, and ability to remain calm in front of a vehicle. Depending on their purpose, they may be light and fast, elegant and animated, or heavy and powerful enough to pull substantial loads.

Their selection developed around the needs of transport, agriculture, trade, warfare, and prestige. Some breeds were created to cover long distances, while others were bred to move heavy loads or display spectacular action in front of ceremonial carriages.

Today, driving is practised for leisure and tourism, in traditional presentations, in certain professional activities, and in competition. Combined driving events may include dressage, cones, and marathon phases, requiring precision, fitness, and trust between the driver and the horses.

All driving horse breeds

160 results

Image unavailable for Abtenauer

Abtenauer

Austria

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 147 to 152 cm

Driving Equestrian Show Draft Work Leisure

Discover the Abtenauer, a local variety of the Noriker, a rare Austrian draft horse, compact and perfectly suited for mountain work.

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American Cream Draft Horse - CC BY 2.0 - Just chaos

American Cream Draft

United States

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 152 to 170 cm

Driving Trail Riding Riding School Draft Work

Strength, gentleness, and a remarkable coat: discover the history and characteristics of the American Cream Draft, an iconic American horse breed.

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American Miniature Horse - CC BY 3.0 - Larrywalmart

American Miniature

United States

Category : Miniature Horse

Height: 70 to 86 cm

Driving Equestrian Show Riding School Equine Therapy

Discover the American Miniature Horse, an elegant and intelligent miniature horse under 86 cm tall, admired for its beauty and gentle temperament.

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Image unavailable for American Mule

American Mule

United States

Category : Mule

Height: 130 to 170 cm

Driving TREC Trail Riding Cattle Work

Discover the American Mule, the remarkable horse–donkey hybrid known for its impressive strength, outstanding endurance, and dependable temperament. H…

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American Paint Horse - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Karakal

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 Saddlebred practicing the rack. - CC BY 2.0 - Heather Moreton

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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Two-year-old American Warmblood filly - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Lar

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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Image unavailable for Andravida – Eleia

Andravida – Eleia

Origin not specified

Category : Riding Horse

Height: 125 to 162 cm

Driving Cattle Work Equestrian Show Draft Work

The Andravida, cavalry horse of the Athenians in the 4th century BC, was saved from extinction by a single stallion named Pegasus in the 1990s. Fewer …

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Anglo-Arab Gray - Public domain - Wikikoko

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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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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Ardennes stallion from the Fourneau Saint-Michel estate in Saint-Hubert (Belgium). - CC BY 3.0 - Marie-Claire

Ardennais (Draft)

France

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 150 to 162 cm

Driving Trail Riding Cattle Work Equestrian Show

Why is the Ardennes horse so strong? Discover this powerful draft horse from the Ardennes and its many uses.

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Ase Català - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Wohleber

Ase Català

Spain

Category : Donkey

Height: 135 to 160 cm

Driving Trail Riding Draft Work Equine Therapy

The Ase Català is one of the world's largest donkey breeds. Discover its origin, temperament, history and unique characteristics.

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Asturcón silver bay pony in its natural environment. - Public domain - fagf

Asturcón

Russia

Category : Pony

Height: 120 to 147 cm

Driving TREC Trail Riding Riding School

Rustic, hardy and almost wild, the Asturcón is one of the oldest breeds of the Iberian Peninsula. Discover its history, characteristics and origins.

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Image unavailable for Australian Riding Pony

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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Image unavailable for Australian Waler

Australian Waler

Australia

Category : Riding Horse

Height: 152 to 163 cm

Driving TREC Trail Riding Cattle Work

Discover the Australian Waler horse, its height, weight, Australian origins, and unique qualities that make it a versatile and robust breed.

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Austrian Warmblood - C BY-SA 4.0 - Wald1siedel

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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Auxois horses harnessed during the Trait d'Avenir harness competition in the maneuverability test. Paris International Agricultural Show 2013, Paris, France. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Eponimm

Auxois (Horse)

France

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 165 to 175 cm

Driving Draft Work Leisure

The Auxois, a Burgundian draft descended from medieval warhorses, can exceed 910 kg. Rescued from extinction in the 1970s, it remains one of France's …

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Bardigiano pony model - CC BY 3.0 - Fioravante Patrone

Bardigiano

Italy

Category : Pony

Height: 135 to 149 cm

Driving Trail Riding Cattle Work Riding School

Discover the Bardigiano horse, a small mountain pony from Emilia-Romagna, Italy. Height 135–149 cm, weight 350–450 kg. A robust and versatile breed, i…

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Barock Pinto - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Terezahnykova

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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Chestnut Belarusian draft, in profile. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Frantishak

Belarusian Draft

Belarus

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 150 to 156 cm

Driving Draft Work Leisure

The Byelorussian Harness Horse, bred for Belarus's swamps and forests, impresses with exceptional longevity — mares remain fertile until age 26. A rar…

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Belgian bay roan during shrimp fishing on horseback in Oostduinkerke. - CC BY 4.0 - Trougnouf (Benoit Brummer)

Belgian Draft Horse - Belgisch Trekpaard

Belgium

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 165 to 175 cm

Driving Equestrian Show Draft Work Equine Therapy

The Belgian Draft, descended from the medieval Great Horse that carried armored knights, is now the most popular draft horse in the United States. A g…

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Grey Boulonnais broodmare, in Samer - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Amélie Tsaag Valren

Boulonnais

France

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 155 to 175 cm

Driving Trail Riding Equestrian Show Riding School

Discover the Boulonnais horse, a powerful, elegant and gentle French draft breed from the northern coast of France.

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Reine de Since, chestnut Breton mare. - CC BY-SA 3.0 -Goulwena MOEL

Breton (Horse)

France

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 158 to 170 cm

Driving Equestrian Show Draft Work Leisure

The Breton, Brittany's iconic draft horse and France's most widespread, still harvests seaweed along the coastline. Sturdy, powerful and gentle, a tru…

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Chestnut Brumby in Kosciuszko National Park - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Thennicke

Brumby

Australia

Category : Riding Horse

Height: 135 to 150 cm

Driving TREC Trail Riding Cattle Work

The Brumby, Australia’s wild horse, sparks debate: heritage or invasive species? Discover its origin and the challenges it represents today.

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Ploughing with a draft horse in Bulgaria at the beginning of the 20th century. - Domaine public

Bulgarian Draft Horse

Bulgaria

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 152 to 155 cm

Driving Draft Work

The Bulgarian Draft, a cross of Russian and Ardennes bloodlines, was officially recognized only in the 21st century. A rare Balkan breed preserving Bu…

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Image unavailable for Calabrese horse

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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Image unavailable for Campeiro

Campeiro

Brazil

Category : Riding Horse

Height: 140 to 154 cm

Driving Trail Riding Cattle Work Draft Work

Discover the Campeiro horse, a rare Brazilian breed known for its hardiness, smooth marcha gait, and adaptation to the southern mountain regions of Br…

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12 year old national champion Campolina stallion - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Amazona01

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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Judging a Canadian horse at Expo Québec, in 2009. - CC BY 3.0 - busand2003

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 Rustic Pony - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Amazona01. SriMesh

Canadian Rustic Pony

Canada

Category : Pony

Height: 124 to 137 cm

Driving Cattle Work Riding School Draft Work

Discover the Canadian Rustic Pony, a small yet strong and enduring horse breed from Canada, known for its hardiness, versatility, and gentle temperame…

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Canadian sport horse Pikardi and his rider Bonny Bonnello at the 2010 Kentucky Cup. - CC BY 2.0 - Jean

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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Cape horse in the early 20th century, before 1914 - Public domain

Cape Horse

South Africa

Category : Riding Horse

Height: 140 to 155 cm

Driving Trail Riding Cattle Work Equestrian Show

Discover the story of the Cape Horse, a South African breed now extinct, used for work and war during the 17th to 19th centuries.

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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 roaming free in his paddock. - CC BY 2.0 - Kerri-Jo Stewart

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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Castillonnais horse at the Tarascon-sur-Ariège agricultural fair, 2025. - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Tylwyth Eldar

Castillonnais (horse)

France

Category : Riding Horse

Height: 135 to 155 cm

Driving Trail Riding Draft Work Equine Therapy

Discover the Castillonnais horse, a rare mountain breed originating from Ariège, ideal for hiking, driving and leisure activities.

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Cleveland Bay with a harness. - CC BY-SA 2.5 - LesMeloures

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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Clydesdale bai sabino. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Bonnie U. Gruenberg

Clydesdale

Scotland

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 173 to 183 cm

Driving Equestrian Show Draft Work Leisure

Discover the Clydesdale horse, a Scottish draft breed renowned for its strength, elegance, and abundant feathering. A gentle and majestic giant.

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Comtois at the Col des Saisies in Savoie. - CC BY 2.5

Comtois Horse

France

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 150 to 165 cm

Driving Equestrian Show Draft Work Equine Therapy

Discover the Comtois Horse, a robust and elegant French draft breed, ideal for traction, driving, and farming in mountainous regions.

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Gentle Dancer, Connemara stallion, in Ireland. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Sophiesl

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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Young Cretan in Georgioupoli, Grillos stables. - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Tsaag Valren

Cretan - Messará

Grèce

Category : Riding Horse

Height: 134 to 140 cm

Driving Trail Riding Cattle Work Equestrian Show

Discover the Cretan horse, or Messara, a rare breed from Crete: height 1.34–1.40 m, weight 300–400 kg, fine Arab-type build and unique arravani gait, …

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Image unavailable for Czech Sport Pony – Český sportovní pony

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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Image unavailable for Czech-Moravian Belgian (Českomoravský belgik)

Czech-Moravian Belgian (Českomoravský belgik)

Czechoslovakia

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 155 to 170 cm

Driving Trail Riding Equestrian Show Draft Work

Discover the Czech-Moravian Belgian, a heavy draft horse from the Czech Republic, bred from Belgian Drafts and local stock, strong and used in farming…

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Image unavailable for Dagestan

Dagestan

Russia

Category : Riding Horse

Height: 130 to 136 cm

Driving Cattle Work Riding School Draft Work

Rare breed from the Caucasus, the Dagestan Pony is hardy, frugal, and mountain-adapted, bred for mare’s milk, pack work, and riding.

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Jument dales primée en Angleterre. - CC BY-SA 4.0 - The Dales Pony Society

Dales Pony

United Kingdom

Category : Pony

Height: 132 to 142 cm

Driving TREC Trail Riding Draft Work

The Dales Pony is a powerful, enduring, and gentle British pony, ideal for driving, trekking, and work over challenging terrain.

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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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Jument Dartmoor et son poulain, en semi-liberté - CC BY 2.0 - Mike Knapp

Dartmoor pony

United Kingdom

Category : Pony

Height: 116 to 127 cm

Driving Equestrian Show Riding School Equine Therapy

Hardy, gentle and versatile, the Dartmoor Pony is ideal for children and leisure riding. Discover its origin, temperament and key qualities.

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Norlys, Døle of Isabelle dress, grazing - CC BY 3.0 - HaXXa

Dølehest

Norway

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 145 to 163 cm

Driving Trail Riding Cattle Work Draft Work

The Døle, Norway's national horse from the Gudbrandsdal valley, comes in two types: heavy draft and harness racer. Every Døle Trotter traces its blood…

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Dülmener breed - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Dietmar Rabich

Dülmener

Allemagne

Category : Primitive Horse

Height: 125 to 135 cm

Driving Endurance Riding Trail Riding Equine Therapy

Dülmener horse, a unique semi-wild German breed known for its hardiness, free-roaming lifestyle, and fascinating history.

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Dutch Draft Pair - CC BY-SA 2.0 - Amanda Slater

Dutch Draft

Netherlands

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 160 to 175 cm

Driving Cattle Work Equestrian Show Draft Work

Discover the Dutch Draft, a powerful and gentle draft horse from the Netherlands, valued for its strength, hardiness, and agricultural use.

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Eastern Bulgarian mare and foal - Public domain - Izvora

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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Horse bred at Einsiedeln Abbey - CC BY-SA 3.0 - © Roland Fischer, Zurich (Switzerland)

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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Gray Eriskay pony at Beinn Sciathan, Eriskay Island. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Mipmapped

Eriskay

United Kingdom

Category : Pony

Height: 124 to 138 cm

Driving Trail Riding Draft Work Leisure

Discover the Eriskay pony, a rare breed from the Outer Hebrides: height, weight, physical traits, origin, uses, and breeding areas.

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Estonian Dapple Bay Horse - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Rozpravka

Estonian Native Horse

Estonia

Category : Pony

Height: 135 to 145 cm

Driving Draft Work Equine Therapy Leisure

Discover the Estonian horse, a hardy and versatile breed from Northern Europe, valued for its strength, longevity, and gentle temperament.

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Exmoor pony in Oerlinghausen, during the summer. - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Tsungam

Exmoor Pony

United Kingdom

Category : Pony

Height: 116 to 129 cm

Driving TREC Trail Riding Leisure

Is the Exmoor Pony the oldest wild pony in England? Discover this hardy British breed and its unique features.

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Falabella with the Spotted Coat - Captain E H Eckholdt — Susan Eckholdt - www.falabellahorses.com

Falabella

Argentina

Category : Miniature Horse

Height: 63 to 85 cm

Driving Equestrian Show Equine Therapy Leisure

Discover the Falabella, one of the smallest horse breeds in the world: docile, elegant, hardy, and native to Argentina. Used in driving and equine the…

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Fell Pony - CC BY 2.0 - Heather Moreton

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 Pony at model - CC BY 2.0 - Nordlicht8

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 horse - CC BY 2.0 - Pia Gaarslev (uploaded by Ane Jensen)

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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Trotting Friesian. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - B0rder

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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A pony in Majorca. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Plàcid Pérez Bru

Galician Pony

Spain

Category : Pony

Height: 120 to 140 cm

Driving Trail Riding Cattle Work Equestrian Show

Why is the Galician pony so hardy? Discover this native breed from Galicia, perfectly adapted to mountain environments and rich in history.

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Galician bay - CC BY-SA 3.0 - HombreDHojalata

Gallega – Cabalo de pura raza Galega

Spain

Category : Pony

Height: 120 to 130 cm

Driving Draft Work Leisure

Discover the Gallega pony, a rustic breed from Galicia: morphology, temperament, uses, breeding and key facts.

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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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Giara horse in Sardinia. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Helga Steinreich

Giara horse

Italy

Category : Pony

Height: 128 to 132 cm

Driving Trail Riding Cattle Work Riding School

Discover the Giara Pony, an indigenous Sardinian breed living semi-wild on the Giara di Gesturi plateau. Hardy, enduring, and rare, it represents a un…

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Typical Gidran horse - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Siheder

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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11-year-old bay Gotland mare, first prize-winning broodmare, at a Gotland Russ show in 2009, Turku. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Sallis Lindqvist

Gotland (Pony)

Sweden

Category : Pony

Height: 117 to 130 cm

Driving Equestrian Show Riding School Leisure

The Gotland, Sweden's only native pony since the Stone Age, pulled the Goths' chariots all the way to Rome. By 1922, only 14 individuals remained. A b…

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Groningen mare and her foal. - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Baykedevries

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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Guizhou - CC0 - pan zhen alpacccca

Guizhou

China

Category : Pony

Height: 115 to 130 cm

Driving Riding School Draft Work Cavalry / Military

Discover the Guizhou horse, a rare breed from the mountains of China: a small, hardy and enduring horse perfectly adapted to difficult terrain.

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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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Canadance, Hackney stallion - CC BY 2.5 - Panachehh

Hackney (Horse)

United Kingdom

Category : Riding Horse

Height: 150 to 165 cm

Driving Equestrian Show Leisure

Discover the Hackney horse, a British breed famous for its elegance, spectacular high-stepping trot, and excellence in competitive and show driving.

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Hackney Pony - CC BY 2.0 - Just chaos

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 pair in carriage driving competition. - CC BY 3.0 - Haflingermaus

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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Henrik von Eckermann and Hanoverian Gotha FRH in a show jumping competition. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Clément Bucco-Lechat

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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Award-winning Highland pony at the 2005 Royal Highland Show, showing visible obesity. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Confuslefu

Highland

United Kingdom

Category : Pony

Height: 132 to 148 cm

Driving TREC Trail Riding Equestrian Show

Discover the Highland Pony, a robust and friendly breed, perfect for trail riding, driving, and riders of all experience levels.

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Sergio Álvarez Moya with Carlo 273, Holsteiner, during the 2018 Paris Eiffel Jumping. - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Amélie Tsaag Valren

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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Huçul bay roan in the Transcarpathia oblast. - CC BY-SA 4.0 - VargaA

Hucul (Pony)

Ukraine

Category : Pony

Height: 125 to 145 cm

Driving Endurance Riding Trail Riding Cattle Work

Discover the Hucul pony, a hardy mountain horse of the Carpathians, known for its rusticity, endurance, and unique cultural heritage.

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Hungarian Draft Horse in Szentendre in 1969 - CC BY-SA 3.0 - FOTO:FORTEPAN / Zsanda Zsolt

Hungarian Draft Horse - Magyar hidegvérű

Hungary

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 155 to 165 cm

Driving Cattle Work Equestrian Show Draft Work

Discover the Hungarian Draft Horse, a powerful and hardy breed from Hungary, renowned for its pulling strength, versatility, and essential role in agr…

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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 horse at the tölt. - CC BY-SA 2.0 - Dagur Brynjólfsson

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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Italian Heavy Draft chestnut, model. - CC BY-SA 2.0 - Salvatore Capalbi from Italy

Italian Heavy Draft

Italy

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 150 to 176 cm

Driving Equestrian Show Draft Work Leisure

The Italian Heavy Draft, nicknamed "Tiro Pesante Rapido", is Europe's fastest draft horse. Developed in Ferrara in 1860, it uniquely combines the powe…

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Image unavailable for Jianchang

Jianchang

China

Category : Riding Horse

Height: 110 to 120 cm

Driving TREC Trail Riding Cattle Work

The Jianchang horse, a small Chinese mountain breed from Sichuan, known for its hardiness and agility, measuring around 110–120 cm and weighing 180–25…

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Two Jutland horses with chestnut coats and washed manes in the pasture. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Malene Thyssen

Jutland

Denmark

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 152 to 165 cm

Driving Equestrian Show Draft Work Leisure

Discover the Jutland, a compact and muscular Danish draft horse, often chestnut-colored, with a calm and hard-working temperament, ideal for farming a…

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Wild horses at Spirits Bay, North Island. - CC BY 2.0 - Natalia Volna itravelNZ@ travel app

Kaimanawa (Horse)

New Zealand

Category : Riding Horse

Height: 127 to 152 cm

Driving Show Jumping Endurance Riding Cattle Work

The Kaimanawa, whose Māori name means "eat the wind", is New Zealand's wild horse. Only 300 individuals remain, managed by the army and listed as rare…

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Kokpar horses in Kazakhstan - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Rustam Uzbekov

Karabaïr

Uzbekistan

Category : Riding Horse

Height: 147 to 157 cm

Driving Endurance Riding Trail Riding Cattle Work

An ancient horse breed from Uzbekistan, the Karabair is known for its endurance and versatility. Discover its origins, temperament and traditional use…

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Bay Karachai horse - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Elbrusoid

Karachai

Russia

Category : Riding Horse

Height: 145 to 155 cm

Driving Endurance Riding TREC Trail Riding

Why is the Karachai considered one of the finest mountain horses? Discover its history, temperament, characteristics, and uses.

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Karakachans in Pirin National Park - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Спасимир

Karakatchan

Bulgaria

Category : Pony

Height: 126 to 138 cm

Driving Leisure

Is the Karakatchan pony at risk? Discover this ancient Bulgarian mountain breed and its role in conservation efforts.

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Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse, three-year-old mare, conformation - CC BY 3.0 - Kittymama

Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse

United States

Category : Gaited Horse

Height: 142 to 163 cm

Driving TREC Trail Riding Cattle Work

Discover the Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse, an American breed renowned for its exceptionally smooth gait, gentle temperament, and versatility.

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The 17-year-old US-imported stallion Kerry Bog Badger, shown at the Rare Breed Show at the Kentucky Horse Park - CC BY 2.0 - Heather Moreton

Kerry Bog

Ireland

Category : Pony

Height: 102 to 117 cm

Driving Riding School Draft Work Leisure

The Kerry Bog Pony, Ireland's Heritage Pony from County Kerry's peat bogs, nearly vanished after the Great Famine. Saved by a single stallion named Fl…

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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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Kiso Bay Coat - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Yanajin33

Kiso

Japan

Category : Riding Horse

Height: 130 to 145 cm

Driving Trail Riding Cattle Work Riding School

Discover the Kiso, one of Japan's last native horse breeds. Learn about its history, temperament, conformation, breeding, uses, and conservation effor…

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Black Kladruber model. - Public domain

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 horse - dressage. Stallion "Hamlet Frydenlund". -CC BY-SA 4.0

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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Konik galloping in semi-freedom at Oostvaardersplassen, the Netherlands. - CC BY 2.0 - Jac. Janssen

Konik

Poland

Category : Pony

Height: 130 to 140 cm

Driving Draft Work Equine Therapy Leisure

Is the Konik a descendant of the Tarpan? Discover this hardy Polish primitive horse and its role in conservation.

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KWPN horse during a dressage competition. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Chefsna

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 in her meadow. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Eponimm

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 bay sport horse - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Tuxer2002

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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Lipizzaner performing a high aria - CC BY 2.0 - Tom Hammer

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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Lithuanian chestnut trait - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Tocekas

Lithuanian Heavy Draught

Lithuania

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 150 to 165 cm

Driving Cattle Work Draft Work

Discover the Lithuanian Draft Horse, a strong and docile breed, ideal for farm work, heavy pulling, and traditional rural use.

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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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Image unavailable for Luxembourg Warmblood

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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Majorquin horse - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Govern de les Illes Balears

Majorquin

Spain

Category : Riding Horse

Height: 160 to 165 cm

Driving Cattle Work Equestrian Show Draft Work

The Mallorquín, Majorca's ancient black horse, numbers just 300 worldwide. Critically endangered by the FAO, it embodies centuries of Balearic history…

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Marquesas Horse in Hiva Oa. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Remi Jouan

Marquesan Horse

French Polynesia

Category : Riding Horse

Height: 140 to 145 cm

Driving Trail Riding Cattle Work Equestrian Show

Discover the Marquesan Horse, a small rustic breed from French Polynesia. Height 1.40 to 1.45 m, weight 400–500 kg, robust and suited to rugged terrai…

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Humayun, Marwari stallion - Public domain - Virendra.kankariya

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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Međimurje - Muraközi ló - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Silverije

Međimurje - Muraközi ló

Hungary

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 150 to 160 cm

Driving Trail Riding Cattle Work Equestrian Show

Discover the Muraköz horse, a rare Hungarian draft breed from the Muraköz plain. Strong, docile and powerful, used for farming, driving and breeding.

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Nickel de Vives, a purebred Mérens gelding. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Didier.tresse

Mérens (horse)

France

Category : Riding Horse

Height: 145 to 155 cm

Driving TREC Trail Riding Equestrian Show

Discover the Mérens horse, a black mountain breed from the Pyrenees known for its strength, versatility, and ancient origins.

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Quick Trigger, licorice-black Missouri Foxtrotter stallion - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Kayla Oakes

Missouri Fox Trotter

United States

Category : Gaited Horse

Height: 142 to 163 cm

Driving Endurance Riding Trail Riding Cattle Work

Why is the Missouri Fox Trotter so comfortable? Discover this smooth gaited horse, perfect for trail riding and western riding.

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A bay Morab under saddle - CC BY 2.0 - Heather Moreton

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 mounted during a show - CC BY 2.0 - Just chaos

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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A Murgese horse presented at the Equitana show in 2005. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - BS Thurner Hof

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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Ponies roaming freely in the New Forest National Park - CC BY 2.0 - Paul Albertella

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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Image unavailable for Nogai

Nogai

Russia

Category : Riding Horse

Height: 138 to 150 cm

Driving Draft Work Cavalry / Military

An ancient horse breed from Dagestan, the Nogai was used for riding, draft work, and milk. Extinct in the 20th century, it influenced the Kabardin.

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Black Nonius at Mezőhegyes National Stud in Hungary, 2007. - Public domain - Tommy lieven

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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Spotted Noriker. - Public domain - Paula Jantunen

Noriker

Austria

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 155 to 165 cm

Driving Trail Riding Equestrian Show Riding School

Originating from the Austrian Alps, the Noriker is a powerful and versatile draft horse. Discover its uses and its calm, gentle temperament.

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Normand cob stallion presented at the national stud farm of Saint-Lô. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Larayevire

Norman Cob

France

Category : Riding Horse

Height: 155 to 165 cm

Driving Draft Work Leisure

Discover the Cob Normand, a powerful and elegant French draft horse, known for its strength, docility, and versatility in harness and work.

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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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Head of a Norwegian Scandinavian Trotter - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Øyvind Holmstad

Norwegian Coldblood Trotter

Norway

Category : Riding Horse

Height: 150 to 160 cm

Driving Trail Riding Riding School Racing

The Norwegian Coldblood Trotter, or Norsk Kaldblodstraver, is an athletic and hardy horse derived from the Døle. Height

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New Gray Altai in the Chuy Steppe, Altai Mountains. - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Alexandr Frolov

Novoaltaïskaya (New Altai)

Russia

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 150 to 157 cm

Driving Trail Riding Cattle Work Draft Work

The New Altai, developed by Soviet zootechnicians in the 1920s and only recognized in 2000, numbers just 2,000 individuals raised semi-wild in Russia'…

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Modern Oldenburg mare with a sooty bay coat - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Martin Bahmann

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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Modern Orlov Trotter in training. - CC BY 2.0 - Alexander

Orlov Trotter

Russia

Category : Riding Horse

Height: 160 to 170 cm

Driving Equestrian Show Riding School Racing

Discover the Orlov Trotter, a Russian breed famed for its speed, elegance, and endurance, ideal for harness driving and competitions.

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Percherons harnessed at the 2011 World Championships, Haras National du Pin. - CC BY 2.0 - INRA DIST from France

Percheron

France

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 155 to 185 cm

Driving Trail Riding Equestrian Show Riding School

Discover the Percheron, a French draft horse breed renowned for its strength, elegance, and versatility. Info on origins, uses, and more.

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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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Leonardo 11, Poitevin Mulassier born in 1999. - CC BY 3.0 - Poitou

Poitevin Mulassier

France

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 160 to 170 cm

Driving Draft Work Leisure

Discover the Poitevin Mulassier, an iconic French draft horse from the Marais Poitevin, known for its strength, rarity, and role in mule breeding.

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Polish Coldblood gray - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Andrzej Otrębski

Polish Coldblood

Poland

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 155 to 165 cm

Driving Cattle Work Equestrian Show Draft Work

Discover the Polish Coldblood Horse, a robust and docile breed from Poland, valued for its strength, hardiness, and qualities in farming and driving.

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Pottok on the loose in the Basque Country. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Lankide Gorritxiki

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. - CC BY 3.0 - Julia Moll

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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Chestnut Rhenish Warmblood a snowy meadow. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Animal photography

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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Rocky Mountain Horse - CC BY 2.0

Rocky Mountain Horse

United States

Category : Gaited Horse

Height: 145 to 163 cm

Driving Endurance Riding TREC Trail Riding

Discover the Rocky Mountain Horse, an American breed renowned for its smooth gait, gentle temperament, and distinctive chocolate-colored coat.

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Romanian Draft Horse - CC BY 2.0 - Cristian Bortes

Romanian Draft Horse

Romania

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 155 to 165 cm

Driving Equestrian Show Draft Work Leisure

Discover the Romanian Draft Horse, a robust and versatile breed used in farming, traction, and driving, symbol of Romania’s rural tradition.

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Image unavailable for Romanian Trotter

Romanian Trotter

Romania

Category : Riding Horse

Height: 155 to 165 cm

Driving Riding School Racing Leisure

Discover the Romanian Trotter, an athletic and enduring horse, used for harness racing, equestrian sport, and breeding in Romania.

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Painting of a Russian Line by Otto Eerelman in 1898 - Public Domain - Otto Eerelman

Russian Heavy Draft

Russia

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 152 to 162 cm

Driving Cattle Work Equestrian Show Draft Work

Discover the Russian Heavy Draft, a calm and powerful horse, developed in the 19th century in Russia for farming, draft work and breeding.

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Russian Trotter being worked on the flat. - CC BY 2.0 - Alexander

Russian Trotter

Russia

Category : Riding Horse

Height: 155 to 168 cm

Driving Trail Riding Riding School Racing

Découvrez le Trotteur Russe, aussi appelé Trotteur Métis : un cheval de trot endurant, issu du croisement Orlov et Standardbred, apprécié pour sa vite…

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Presentation of a Selle Français stallion at the Cluny National Stud Farm. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Eponimm

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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Shagyas presented at the Topoľčianky stud farm in Slovakia. - CC0 - EU2016 SK — FIELD TRIP 2016-09-12

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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A piebald Shetland pony on the Shetland Islands. - CC BY-SA 2.0 - Ronnie Robertson

Shetland Pony

United Kingdom

Category : Pony

Height: 87 to 107 cm

Driving Trail Riding Equestrian Show Riding School

The Shetland Pony, the world's strongest horse relative to its size, can pull twice its own weight. Present since the Bronze Age, thousands spent thei…

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Shire harness. - CC BY 2.0 - Just chaos

Shire

United Kingdom

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 173 to 193 cm

Driving Draft Work Cavalry / Military

Discover the Shire, a giant and elegant English draft horse, famed for its strength, towering stature, and calm, gentle temperament.

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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 Regional Police Department in Bratislava - CC BY 3.0 - Martin Baran

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 - - CC BY 3.0 - Michal Jakubský

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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Soviet Heavy Draft at the Sevastopol Zoo, Russia - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Iskulikov

Soviet Heavy Draft

Russia

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 150 to 160 cm

Driving Endurance Riding Draft Work

Discover the Soviet Heavy Draft horse, a powerful Russian breed known for its strength, resilience, and role in heavy farm work. History, traits, and …

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Standardbred mare in harness trotting race. - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Markus Kauppinen

Standardbred

United States

Category : Gaited Horse

Height: 150 to 170 cm

Driving Trail Riding Equestrian Show Racing

The Standardbred, world's fastest harness horse, traces 90% of its bloodlines to one stallion — Hambletonian 10. Named after the 1879 speed standard: …

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Pair of Suffolk Punches plowing. - CC BY-SA 2.0 - Amanda Slater

Suffolk Punch

United Kingdom

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 163 to 170 cm

Driving Draft Work Leisure

Discover the Suffolk Punch, a rustic, powerful, and gentle British draft horse, renowned for its chestnut coat and legendary strength.

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Suomenhevonen - Finnhorse stallion. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Johanna Rautio

Suomenhevonen - Finnhorse

Finland

Category : Riding Horse

Height: 135 to 147 cm

Driving Draft Work Racing

Why is the Suomenhevonen so appreciated? Strong and versatile, discover this Finnish horse and its unique qualities.

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The Swedish Warmblood – Svenskt Varmblod mare Fibonacci at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. - CC BY 3.0 br - Fernando Frazão/Agence Brésil -

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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Trait du Nord - 2010 Agricultural Show - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Eponimm

Trait du Nord

France

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 160 to 175 cm

Driving Trail Riding Equestrian Show Riding School

The Trait du Nord is a massive and docile French draft horse, used for driving, farm work, and the preservation of cultural traditions.

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Trakehner bay, model - Public domain - Lena

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 - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Shr3000

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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Image unavailable for Vladimir Heavy Draft

Vladimir Heavy Draft

Russia

Category : Draft Horse

Height: 155 to 165 cm

Driving Cattle Work Draft Work Leisure

Discover the Vladimir horse, a Russian heavy draft combining strength, endurance, and elegance. History, origins, breeding, uses, and full characteris…

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Three-year-old Welsh cob pony, chestnut with washed mane, model. - CC BY-SA 3.0

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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Wielkopolski bay - Public domain - Siedlar

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, Katharina Offel on B-Once Z at the Internationalen Pfingstturnier in Wiesbaden 2013. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Michael Kramer

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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Žemaitukas. Lithuania. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Tocekas

Zemaitukas

Lithuania

Category : Pony

Height: 128 to 138 cm

Driving Cattle Work Draft Work Leisure

The Žemaitukas horse is an ancient Lithuanian breed, robust and versatile. Standing 128–138 cm and weighing 350–420 kg, it is valued for endurance, ha…

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FAQ — Driving Horses

What is a driving horse?
A driving horse is trained to pull a carriage, cart, or another horse-drawn vehicle. It must respond to the driver’s aids, maintain a regular pace, and remain calm in varied surroundings.
What qualities are desirable in a driving horse?
Desirable qualities include a reliable temperament, sound physical condition, regular gaits, endurance, pulling ability, and the capacity to work alone, as a pair, or as part of a team.
Which breeds are commonly used for driving?
Breeds commonly associated with driving include the Percheron, Friesian, Haflinger, Norman Cob, Ardennes, Boulonnais, Comtois, Welsh Cob, and several sport horse breeds, depending on the intended use.
Is driving limited to draft horses?
No. Draft horses are well suited to heavy pulling, but many riding horses, carriage breeds, and ponies are used for leisure, traditional presentations, and competition.
What is the difference between recreational and competitive driving?
Recreational driving focuses mainly on pleasure, outings, and safety. Competitive driving may include dressage, cones, and marathon phases.
Can a ridden horse also be driven?
Yes. Some horses can be both ridden and driven, but they require specific training to accept the harness, vehicle, noises, and aids given from behind.
Can one horse be driven alone?
Yes. Driving can be practised with a single horse, a pair, a tandem, or a larger team. The vehicle, harness, training, and driving technique must suit the chosen configuration.
What equipment is needed for horse driving?
Essential equipment includes a correctly fitted harness, a vehicle suited to the horse’s size and strength, reins, an appropriate bit, and regularly inspected safety equipment.
Is horse driving dangerous?
Driving involves specific risks because the horse is attached to a vehicle. Progressive training, well-maintained equipment, an experienced driver, and the presence of a groom can greatly reduce those risks.
Which driving horse is best for a beginner?
A beginner should generally choose an experienced, calm, regular horse that is already accustomed to traffic and unexpected situations rather than a powerful but inexperienced young horse.
Can ponies be used for driving?
Yes. Many pony breeds are very well suited to recreational or competitive driving, provided that the vehicle and load are proportionate to their size, fitness, and training.
What is traditional carriage driving?
Traditional carriage driving highlights historic or traditionally styled vehicles, carefully presented harnesses, and a coherent turnout formed by the horses, vehicle, driver, and passengers.
What is the marathon phase in combined driving?
The marathon is a cross-country phase involving a course and technical obstacles. It requires speed, endurance, precision, and close coordination between the driver, grooms, and horses.
How much weight can a horse pull?
The appropriate load depends on the horse’s weight and conformation, the type of vehicle, terrain, gradient, pace, duration, fitness, and training. There is no single value that applies safely in every situation.