Equine Encyclopedia

Riding Horses

Riding horses are selected primarily for mounted work, from family leisure riding to demanding sport disciplines. Depending on the breed, they can offer very different profiles in balance, movement quality, responsiveness, comfort, trainability and overall suitability for a rider's level and goals.

Riding Horses at a Glance

DefinitionHorses primarily developed for riding and mounted disciplines.
UsesLeisure riding, dressage, jumping, eventing, endurance and trail riding.
TemperamentRanges from calm and forgiving to reactive and highly sport-oriented.
Key pointsBalance, quality of gaits, rideability, mindset and athletic suitability.
Akhal-Teke stallion presented in traditional costume. - CC BY 2.0 - Heather Moreton
Turkmenistan Riding Horse

A 3,000-year-old golden horse? Discover what reliable sources really reveal about the Akhal-Teke, its history, metallic sheen and genetics.

View profile
Alter Real horse from the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art, in 2023 - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Tsaag Valren
Portugal Riding Horse

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

View profile
American Paint Horse - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Karakal
United States Riding Horse

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

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

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

View profile
Two-year-old American Warmblood filly - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Lar
United States Riding Horse

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

View profile
Anglo-Arab Gray - Public domain - Wikikoko
France Riding Horse

Discover the Anglo-Arabian, a French sport horse combining Arabian and Thoroughbred bloodlines: history, conformation, temperament and breeding.

View profile

Comparison of Riding Horse Breeds

Riding horse breeds cover a wide range of goals and rider profiles. This comparison offers quick orientation points, but your final choice should always include the individual horse's temperament, education, soundness and compatibility with the rider.

BreedOriginGeneral TypeFrequent UsesParticularity
Selle FrancaisFranceSporty, powerfulShow jumping, eventingTop-level sport profile.
ThoroughbredUnited KingdomFine, fastRacing, sport crossingSpeed and stamina.
HanoverianGermanyBalanced, elegantDressage, jumpingVersatile sport horse.
KWPNNetherlandsModern, athleticDressage, jumpingStrong performance selection.
LusitanoPortugalCompact, collectedDressage, refined workExcellent rideability.

How to Choose a Riding Horse

For a first horse, prioritize a safe, educated and consistent individual over pure pedigree prestige. A horse with a suitable mindset and training level is usually a better long-term match than a very talented, more difficult horse.

If you have sport ambitions, define your main discipline first, then assess your full budget (purchase, boarding, veterinary care, farriery, training and equipment). Reliability and compatibility are often more important than raw performance potential.

Before purchase, test the horse in different contexts when possible, request transparent history, and perform a pre-purchase veterinary exam with a trusted professional.

All Riding Horse Breeds

131 results

Akhal-Teke stallion presented in traditional costume. - CC BY 2.0 - Heather Moreton

Akhal-Teke

Country: Turkmenistan

Category: Riding Horse

A 3,000-year-old golden horse? Discover what reliable sources really reveal about the Akhal-Teke, its history, metallic sheen and genetics.

View breed
Alter Real horse from the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art, in 2023 - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Tsaag Valren

Alter Real

Country: Portugal

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
American Paint Horse - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Karakal

American Paint Horse

Country: United States

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

American Quarter Horse

Country: United States

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

American Warmblood

Country: United States

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
No image available for Andravida – Eleia

Andravida – Eleia

Country: Not specified

Category: Riding Horse

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 ...

View breed
Anglo-Arab Gray - Public domain - Wikikoko

Anglo-Arabian

Country: France

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the Anglo-Arabian, a French sport horse combining Arabian and Thoroughbred bloodlines: history, conformation, temperament and breeding.

View breed
Appaloosa stallion - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Karakal

Appaloosa

Country: United States

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
The black AQPS horse Vent des Dunes (2009–) during a steeplechase at the Corlay Équipôle in June 2021. – CC BY-SA 4.0 – Tsaag Valren

AQPS | French Chaser

Country: France

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the AQPS, also known as the French Chaser, a French horse selected for jump racing and developed from half-bred lines strongly influenced by ...

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

Arabe Persan - Pur-sang Arabe d’Iran

Country: Iran

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Arabian Horse

Country: Saudi Arabia

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Argentine Polo Pony bay - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Gergrim

Argentine Polo Pony

Country: Argentina

Category: Riding Horse

Why does the Argentinian polo horse dominate world polo? Fast and agile, discover this exceptional horse and its unique performance.

View breed
Australian Stock Horse - CC BY 3.0 - Cgoodwin

Australian Stock Horse

Country: Australia

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
No image available for Australian Waler

Australian Waler

Country: Australia

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Austrian Warmblood - C BY-SA 4.0 - Wald1siedel

Austrian Warmblood

Country: Austria

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the Austrian Warmblood, a sport horse bred for dressage and show jumping: history, conformation, temperament and breeding.

View breed
Nemo, an Auvergne horse from the Rocs de la Serre equestrian center, being ridden on a trail ride in 2007. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Stephanemartin

Auvergne Horse

Country: France

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the Auvergne Horse, a hardy French mountain breed known for its bay coat, compact build, gentle temperament and versatility.

View breed
Württembergers Public Domain – Xocolatl

Baden-Württemberger

Country: Germany

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Baguales at the foot of the Fitz Roy massif, Patagonia - CC BY 3.0 - Annalisa Parisi

Bagual

Country: Argentina

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the Bagual horse, a symbol of freedom in Chile. Descended from the Criollo, it embodies strength, hardiness, and the spirit of South American...

View breed
Bay Barb horse dressed for a fantasia, in Tozeur - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Tsaag Valren

Barb Horse

Country: Not specified

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the Barb, an ancestral North African horse: history, conformation, temperament, uses, genetic diversity and conservation.

View breed
Barock Pinto - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Terezahnykova

Barock Pinto

Country: Netherlands

Category: Riding Horse

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 ...

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

Bavarian Warmblood

Country: Germany

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Bosnian mare and foal, bay with brown. - CC BY-SA 4.0 - MilanK Kralj

Bosnian Mountain Horse

Country: Bosnia and Herzegovina

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the Bosnian horse, a hardy mountain pony, renowned for its robustness, docile character and unique genetic heritage.

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

Brumby

Country: Australia

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Budyonny horse - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Fefa Koroleva

Budyonny horse - Boudionnovskaïa lochad

Country: Russia

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
No image available for Calabrese horse

Calabrese horse

Country: Italy

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Presentation of these magnificent horses, symbols of the Camargue and pride of the guardians in the marshes - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Rambouil jean

Camargue Horse

Country: France

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the Camargue Horse, a small gray horse from the Rhône delta: history, herd breeding, temperament, conformation and traditional uses.

View breed
No image available for Campeiro

Campeiro

Country: Brazil

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Group of Canadian cowboys escorting cattle, 1947 - No restrictions - Provincial Archives of Alberta

Canadian Cutting Horse

Country: Canada

Category: Riding Horse

Athletic Canadian breed derived from the Quarter Horse, the Cutting Horse excels in cattle sorting thanks to its agility, balance, and strong working ...

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

Canadian Horse

Country: Canada

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Canadian Sport Horse

Country: Canada

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Cape Horse

Country: South Africa

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the Cape Horse, an extinct South African riding horse whose bloodlines contributed to several breeds adapted to southern Africa.

View breed
Grey Chartreux at piaffe - CC BY 2.0 - Nordlicht8

Cartujano - Carthusian Spanish horse

Country: Spain

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Caspian

Country: Iran

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Castillonnais (horse)

Country: France

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Caballo de Pura Raza Chilena - CC BY 2.5

Chilean

Country: Chile

Category: Riding Horse

An ancient and heritage breed, the Chilean horse combines endurance, courage, and agility. A symbol of Chilean tradition and the heart of the rodeo.

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

Cleveland Bay

Country: United Kingdom

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
One of the first thoroughbred stallions Colorado Ranger - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Seerig

Colorado Ranger

Country: United States

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Corsican breed mare. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Ciriolla

Corsican Horse

Country: France

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the Corsican Horse, a hardy island breed standing 1.30 to 1.52 m, renowned for its sure-footedness, endurance and adaptation to Corsica's ter...

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

Cretan - Messará

Country: Grèce

Category: Riding Horse

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, ...

View breed
Bay Argentinian Criollo mare - CC BY 3.0 - Luciodec

Criollo

Country: Argentina

Category: Riding Horse

An emblematic Argentine breed, the Criollo stands out for its endurance, resilience, and deep connection to gaucho traditions.

View breed
No image available for Dagestan

Dagestan

Country: Russia

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Danish Warmblood – Dansk Varmblod

Country: Denmark

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Dongola from Mali - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Tiebokafitoure

Dongola

Country: Sudan

Category: Riding Horse

Is the Dongola a unique desert horse? Discover this elegant Nubian breed, its history and its role in African cavalry traditions.

View breed
Eastern Bulgarian mare and foal - Public domain - Izvora

East Bulgarian

Country: Bulgaria

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Einsiedler

Country: Switzerland

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Picture from the traditional Hubertusjagt horse race in Jægersborg Dyrehave north of Copenhagen, Denmark. - CC BY-SA 2.5 - Henrik Jessen

English Hunter - Horse Type

Country: United Kingdom

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the English Hunter horse, an elegant and athletic type, ideal for fox hunting, show jumping, and hunter competitions.

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

Finnish Warmblood – Suomenpuoliverinen – FWB

Country: Finland

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Cracker horse in the Paynes Prairie State Preserve - CC BY 2.0 - Geoff Gallice

Florida Cracker Horse

Country: United States

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the Florida Cracker Horse, a Spanish colonial horse from Florida, agile and fast, used for cattle work and known for its exceptional enduranc...

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

Frederiksborg

Country: Denmark

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Freiberger | Franches-Montagnes

Country: Switzerland

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
French trotter at the Cépière racecourse. - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Clément Gruin

French Trotter – TF

Country: France

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the French Trotter, a fast and enduring racehorse used in harness and mounted trotting, emblematic of French racetracks.

View breed
Trotting Friesian. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - B0rder

Friesian

Country: Netherlands

Category: Riding Horse

The Friesian is a black Dutch horse with abundant mane and feathering. Explore its history, conformation, temperament, breeding and health.

View breed
Furioso at the model, in Poland - GFDL - JoRe

Furioso-North Star

Country: Hungary

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Pair of harnessed Gelderland - Public domain - Xocolatl

Gelderlander

Country: Netherlands

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Typical Gidran horse - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Siheder

Gidran

Country: Hungary

Category: Riding Horse

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...

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

Groningen

Country: Netherlands

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
No image available for Guanzhong

Guanzhong

Country: China

Category: Riding Horse

Originating from Shaanxi, the Guanzhong horse is a powerful breed long used for agricultural work and transport in China.

View breed
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)

Country: Ireland

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Canadance, Hackney stallion - CC BY 2.5 - Panachehh

Hackney (Horse)

Country: United Kingdom

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Hanoverian

Country: Germany

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Henson horses in Saint-Quentin-en-Tourmont. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Nicolas Torquet

Henson

Country: France

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the Henson, a French horse created in the Bay of Somme for outdoor riding, known for its dun coat and appreciated for its hardiness.

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

Hispano-arabe | Aralusian

Country: Spain

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Holsteiner

Country: Germany

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Hungarian Half-bred – Magyar félvér

Country: Hungary

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Irish Draft Stallion - CC BY 2.5 - Losmurfs

Irish Draught

Country: Ireland

Category: Riding Horse

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...

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

Irish Sport Horse - Hunter Irlandais

Country: Ireland

Category: Riding Horse

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, ...

View breed
No image available for Jianchang

Jianchang

Country: China

Category: Riding Horse

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...

View breed
Kabardin model - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Helgie12

Kabardian

Country: Russia

Category: Riding Horse

Why is the Kabardian considered one of the world's finest mountain horses? Discover its history, temperament, conformation, and uses.

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

Kaimanawa (Horse)

Country: New Zealand

Category: Riding Horse

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...

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

Karabaïr

Country: Uzbekistan

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
A group of chestnut Karabakh horses at Yashar Guluzade's stud farm in Shaki. - CC0 - Sefer azeri

Karabakh

Country: Azerbaijan

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Bay Karachai horse - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Elbrusoid

Karachai

Country: Russia

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Kisber Felver

Country: Hungary

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Kiso Bay Coat - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Yanajin33

Kiso

Country: Japan

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Black Kladruber model. - Public domain

Kladruber

Country: Czech Republic

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Knabstrup

Country: Denmark

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Koheilan - Lineagee

Country: Not specified

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the Koheilan, a traditional Arabian horse lineage known for its powerful type, Bedouin history and international influence.

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

KWPN

Country: Netherlands

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the KWPN, a Dutch horse selected for dressage, jumping and driving: history, breeding directions, conformation, temperament and health.

View breed
Latvian bay sport horse - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Tuxer2002

Latvian horse

Country: Latvia

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Lipizzan

Country: Slovenia

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the Lipizzan, a historic European breed renowned for classical dressage, its baroque build, ancient bloodlines and breeding tradition.

View breed
No image available for Lokai

Lokai

Country: Tajikistan

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the Lokai horse, a robust and agile Tajik mountain breed used for riding, pack work, kokpar and endurance.

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

Lusitano (Purebred)

Country: Portugal

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
No image available for Luxembourg Warmblood

Luxembourg Warmblood

Country: Luxembourg

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Majorquin

Country: Spain

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Maremmano

Country: Italy

Category: Riding Horse

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...

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

Marquesan Horse

Country: French Polynesia

Category: Riding Horse

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...

View breed
Humayun, Marwari stallion - Public domain - Virendra.kankariya

Marwari

Country: India

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the Marwari, a Rajasthani horse with inward-curving ears: history, conformation, temperament, breeding, uses and conservation.

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

Mecklenburger

Country: Germany

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Mérens (horse)

Country: France

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Minorquin horse in show - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Marta Ensesa

Minorquin

Country: Spain

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Morab

Country: United States

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Morgan mounted during a show - CC BY 2.0 - Just chaos

Morgan

Country: United States

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Murgese

Country: Italy

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Mustangs in Arizona. - CC BY 2.0 - John Harwood

Mustang

Country: United States

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the Mustang, America’s wild horse, a symbol of freedom and endurance, still roaming across the Western United States.

View breed
No image available for Nogai

Nogai

Country: Russia

Category: Riding Horse

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.

View breed
Nokota - CC BY-SA 3.0 - François Marchal and Dana boomer

Nokota

Country: United States

Category: Riding Horse

The Nokota is a rare American horse from the wild herds of North Dakota. Discover its unique history, roan coats, and hardy temperament.

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

Nonius

Country: Hungary

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Norman Cob

Country: France

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

North American Curly Horse

Country: United States

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Norwegian Coldblood Trotter

Country: Norway

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Oldenburg

Country: Germany

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Orlov Trotter

Country: Russia

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
No image available for Orlov-Rostopchin

Orlov-Rostopchin

Country: Russia

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Paraguayan Criollo Paraguayan Horse - Domaine public - Andrea Grosse NBII

Paraguayan Criollo – Paraguayan Horse

Country: Paraguay

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the Paraguayan Horse, or Paraguayan Criollo: a small, hardy and enduring horse, loyal and perfectly adapted to South American ranch life.

View breed
No image available for Peneia Pony

Peneia Pony

Country: Greece

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the Peneia, a rare ambling pony from the Peloponnese (Greece), grey, critically endangered. History, morphology and unique traits of this bre...

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

Pleven (Horse of)

Country: Bulgaria

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Pura Raza Española (PRE) - Andalusian horse. - CC BY 3.0 - Julia Moll

Pura Raza Española (PRE) - Andalusian horse

Country: Spain

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Rhenish Warmblood

Country: Germany

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the Rhenish Warmblood, a German sport horse bred for dressage, show jumping and eventing, with athletic ability and rideability.

View breed
No image available for Romanian Trotter

Romanian Trotter

Country: Romania

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Russian Don

Country: Russia

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Russian Trotter

Country: Russia

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Salernitano mounted at the Fieracavalli 2014 - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Justlettersandnumbers

Salernitano

Country: Italy

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
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

Country: Belgium

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the SBS, a Belgian sport-horse studbook selecting horses for show jumping, dressage and eventing.

View breed
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

Country: Italy

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Selle Français

Country: France

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the Selle Français, a sport horse selected for show jumping, eventing and dressage: history, conformation, temperament and breeding.

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

Shagya

Country: Hungary

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Silesian Warmblood - Slaski

Country: Poland

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Slovak Warmblood – Slovenský teplokrevník Regional Police Department in Bratislava - CC BY 3.0 - Martin Baran

Slovak Warmblood – Slovenský teplokrevník

Country: Slovakia

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Slovenian Warmblood – Slovenski Toplokrvni Konj - - CC BY 3.0 - Michal Jakubský

Slovenian Warmblood – Slovenski Toplokrvni Konj

Country: Slovenia

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Suomenhevonen - Finnhorse

Country: Finland

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
Swedish Trotter - CC BY 3.0 - Thomas Blomqvist / Kanal 75

Swedish Trotter

Country: Sweden

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the Swedish Trotter, an elegant and powerful racehorse, renowned for its speed, stamina, and performances in harness and mounted trotting.

View breed
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

Country: Sweden

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Swiss Warmblood - Schweizer Warmblut

Country: Switzerland

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
A thoroughbred horse gallops at Churchill Downs Racecourse in Louisville, Kentucky (USA). - CC BY-SA 2.0 - Jeff Kubina

Thoroughbred

Country: United Kingdom

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the Thoroughbred: its origins, history, conformation, temperament, health, racing career and transition to other equestrian disciplines.

View breed
Trakehner bay, model - Public domain - Lena

Trakehner

Country: Germany

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the Trakehner, a sport horse developed in East Prussia: its history, conformation, temperament, breeding and sporting abilities.

View breed
Touching horse in Tusheti - CC BY 2.0 - Lidia Ilona

Tushetian

Country: Georgia

Category: Riding Horse

Why is the Tushetian Horse so valued in the Caucasus Mountains? Discover its history, temperament, and unique qualities.

View breed
Ukrainian Riding Horse - CC BY-SA 4.0 - Shr3000

Ukrainian Riding Horse

Country: Ukraine

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed
No image available for Uruguayan Cimarrón

Uruguayan Cimarrón

Country: Uruguay

Category: Riding Horse

The Uruguayan Cimarrón is a hardy horse born in the wild, known for its endurance, resilience, and ability to adapt to difficult terrain. Learn about ...

View breed
The gray Westphalian Murtajiz Al Hawajer in 2013. - CC BY-SA 3.0 - Olaf Kosinsky

Westphalian

Country: Germany

Category: Riding Horse

Discover the Westphalian, a German sport horse selected for dressage and show jumping: history, conformation, temperament and breeding.

View breed
Wielkopolski bay - Public domain - Siedlar

Wielkopolski

Country: Poland

Category: Riding Horse

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

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

Zangersheide

Country: Belgium

Category: Riding Horse

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

View breed

FAQ - Riding Horses

What is a riding horse?
A riding horse is primarily selected for mounted work in leisure or sport disciplines.
Are riding horses suitable for beginners?
Many are, especially well-trained individuals with calm temperaments and predictable behavior.
How much does owning a riding horse cost?
Beyond purchase price, include boarding, feed, veterinary care, farriery, tack, insurance and training.
Which discipline should I choose?
Choose based on rider goals, physical condition, available coaching and the horse's natural aptitudes.
How do I know if a horse is right for me?
Evaluate temperament, rideability, training level and behavior in multiple contexts before committing.
What is the difference with draft horses?
Riding horses are selected for mounted use, while draft horses were historically bred for traction work.
Can one riding horse do both leisure and sport?
Yes, many riding horse breeds are versatile enough to combine regular leisure riding with competitive progress.
Should I prioritize breed or character?
Character, education and rider compatibility are usually more decisive than breed name alone.

Explore Other Categories

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

Dressage Breeds

Elegance, balance and precision.

Explore
Racing breeds
Racing

Racing Breeds

Speed, stamina and performance.

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

Western Breeds

Maneuverability, calm mind and versatility.

Explore
Eastern Bulgarian mare and foal - Public domain - Izvora
Inventory

Complete Inventory

Browse all listed breeds.

Explore