Top 10 Best Horse Breeds in the World

The Appaloosa Horse is an American breed known for its distinctive coat pattern, with spots and color variations that are genetically inherited. These patterns are a major focus for researchers studying horse coat genetics. The breed was developed by the Nez Perce tribe in Idaho, USA, originating from a famous European Asian horse of the Middle Ages. The breed was officially discovered in 1805, with the Nez Perce as its caretakers. Typically, the front of an Appaloosa is a solid color, while its hindquarters feature darker spots around the thighs and rump. Known for its intelligence, speed, and endurance, this breed is often seen in performances. The average height of an Appaloosa is about 1.4 meters, with a weight of 500 kg. Artistic representations of horses with spotted coats have been found from ancient Greek and Han Chinese civilizations. The Appaloosa is one of the most popular breeds in the United States, and even appeared in several films, with one serving as the mascot for the Seminole tribe in Florida.

Recent studies have shown that prehistoric cave paintings in Eurasia may depict a spotted horse, reflecting the appearance of ancient wild horses. The Nez Perce tribe, who lived in what is now Eastern Washington, Oregon, and Western Idaho, relied heavily on horses for agriculture and breeding. Their location in an area with excellent horses, relatively safe from tribal conflicts, allowed them to focus on breeding these remarkable animals.

Key Characteristics:

• The Appaloosa is defined by three main traits: spotted coat, striped hooves, and white sclera (the white part of the eye). While the spotted coat is common, it is not exclusive to the breed. The weight of an Appaloosa ranges from 430 to 570 kg (950 to 1250 lbs), with a height of 142 to 163 cm (56 to 64 inches).
• Any horse exhibiting the core features of the Appaloosa, such as the spotted coat, striped hooves, and white sclera, is considered an Appaloosa. While the coat pattern may vary, the breed’s signature color and athletic build remain consistent. Known for being smart, fast, and resilient, these horses are often used in competitive shows and events.
• The breed features a small head, pointed ears, a strong neck, short but muscular back, a round and sturdy body, powerful legs, and robust hooves. Their smooth mane completes their striking appearance.
• Appaloosas are recognized for their expressive eyes, which are considered a hallmark of the breed. The breed also offers a wide range of coat colors, including roan, spotted, and various shades of solid and patterned coats.
• Primarily used in racing, Appaloosas stand out for their endurance and calm temperament. These horses excel in speed and agility, making them perfect for races and competitions, where their natural abilities help them secure victories.

The Mongolian Horse is a native breed from Mongolia, renowned for its historical significance as a warhorse. Originating from the Mongolian steppes and the Gobi Desert during the rise of the Mongol Empire from the 7th to 13th centuries, this breed is known for its remarkable endurance and resilience. The Mongolian horse is easy to maintain, requiring only grass to thrive, making it a low-cost option. Despite its relatively small size of 130 to 140 cm in height, the Mongolian horse is robust, and its ability to withstand harsh conditions has made it a symbol of strength in Mongolian culture. With over three million horses, more than the human population of Mongolia, they played a pivotal role in the Mongol conquests. Trained in extreme weather conditions, these horses became world-famous for their stamina and agility.

The Mongolian horse is medium-sized, standing around 1.4 meters tall, with coats ranging from reddish-brown to dark brown. It has a compact body with a broad chest, slender belly, and sturdy legs. While not as elegant as Arabian horses, it is incredibly strong and durable. These horses have a running speed of 30 to 45 km/h, with a maximum speed of 40 km/h, and are capable of enduring long distances, even galloping for up to 10 hours without tiring. Their characteristic gallop involves stretching their heads forward, which aids riders in shooting arrows without obstruction. Mongolian horses are well-known worldwide for their toughness and can survive on grass alone. They are trained to endure extreme temperatures, living outdoors year-round in conditions ranging from 30°C (86°F) in the summer to -40°C (-40°F) in the winter. They are also adept at digging through snow to find food, a skill that made them essential during Mongol campaigns. Unlike other breeds, they are not fussy eaters. Historically, male horses were gelded to prevent distractions during military campaigns, with only the strongest stallions reserved for breeding.

Key Characteristics:

• The Mongolian horse is compact, highly resilient, and able to survive in extreme weather conditions. Although it is small in stature, it has remarkable endurance, thriving in the harsh dry conditions of the steppe. These horses are versatile, used for both labor and milk production, with mares capable of producing up to 1 liter of milk per day. A typical Mongolian mare has a shoulder height of 126.9 cm, a chest girth of 154.2 cm, a body length of 134.2 cm, and a cannon bone circumference of 16.8 cm. They are trained to allow riders to shoot arrows in all directions while maintaining speed and stability.
• One distinctive feature of their training is that when galloping, the horse leans forward, which enables the rider to shoot freely in any direction without obstruction. These horses are trained to be fully unrestricted, without saddles, bridles, or heavy loads, and only reins are applied just before battle. In times of need, soldiers could make a small incision in their horse’s neck to drink its blood. These horses are raised to be obedient, with soldiers forming strong bonds with their steeds, sometimes riding for ten days straight, even sleeping and eating on horseback. If necessary, soldiers would eat the meat of their horses to sustain themselves.
• Mongol warriors typically kept a herd of up to 18 horses, allowing them to swiftly change mounts and maintain high mobility, giving the impression of an unstoppable force. These horses require minimal care, as they survive on grass, reducing the need for logistics and supply chains. Mongol soldiers could even consume blood and meat from their own horses, allowing them to remain self-sufficient and focused on battle. In combat, each Mongol warrior would use two horses, giving them a significant advantage in mobility and fighting capability.
• The Mongolian horse played a crucial role in the success of the Mongol Empire, contributing to its expansion across Asia and Europe. The sound of Mongol hooves struck fear into local populations, especially in Europe, where it was said that “where the Mongol horse passed, no grass would grow.”
• For the Mongols, horses were essential to their nomadic lifestyle. In a vast, sparsely populated land, where pastures could be hundreds of miles apart, the horse was the fastest and most reliable form of transportation. Horse milk was fermented into 'airag,' a traditional drink, and other animals were raised for meat. Horses were crucial for the daily activities of nomadic life and in their horse races. The Mongols focused on breeding fast, numerous horses, as every stretch of land demanded their use, and only the Mongols could control these unruly steeds.

The Kabardin horse, also known as Cabardin, originates from Russia and was developed during the Soviet era. It is primarily bred in the highlands of the Caucasus and Zakatala regions. With a history spanning over 400 years, the breed has been imported to Vietnam and adapted well to the mountainous terrain of the country. The Kabardin is a versatile working horse, traditionally used for military patrols, racing, and draft purposes. It has also been crossbred with local Vietnamese horses to improve the size and strength of the native breeds.

Cabardin horses are known for their suitability in cold climates, excelling in harsh winter conditions like those found in Russia and northern Europe. From the Cabardin lineage, specialized breeds like the Buclionnui and Vladimia were developed. The Buclionnui is a sleek, nimble breed used by border patrol forces in rugged forests, while the Vladimia is more robust, with sturdy legs capable of pulling heavy loads—up to 2 tons. In Vietnam, crossbreeding these horses with local breeds has led to the creation of strong, adaptable horses used primarily for transport and draft work.

Key Features:

• Cabardin horses are versatile, used for military purposes, racing, and as draft animals. They are particularly well-suited to cold environments, capable of enduring harsh, extended winters. The breed is also adept at navigating challenging mountainous terrain. Cabardins typically stand between 1.4 and 1.5 meters tall and weigh between 350 to 400 kg. Some individuals can reach up to 1.6 meters in height and weigh around 500 kg. Their bodies are robust with a long, deep chest and a large, sturdy head. They have sleek, bay or black coats. The average size of male horses is 152 cm at the withers, while females stand at 149 cm. Their chest circumference is 175 cm for males and 178 cm for females, with cannon bone circumferences of 19.3 cm for males and 18.4 cm for females.
• The Cabardin is highly resilient to cold temperatures, thriving in the harsh winters of Russia and northern Europe. This breed is known for its ability to navigate difficult mountainous trails. One of the most famous endurance races, held around the Caucasus Mountains, saw Cabardin horses complete a 3,000 km journey over 47 days, averaging 64 km per day, with some horses running as much as 120-130 km in a single day.
• Crossbreeding Cabardin horses with local Vietnamese horses has produced a hybrid with 25% Cabardin blood and 75% native blood, perfect for draft work in mountainous regions. These hybrids have shown great success, with varying percentages of Cabardin blood (25%-75%) yielding strong results for different purposes. A 25% Cabardin hybrid is particularly suited for mountain terrain, while the 50% and 75% hybrids are ideal for tourist attractions, circuses, and large farms for riding or pulling tourist carts. Currently, around 20,000 of these hybrid horses are being raised in the mountainous regions of Vietnam.
• The hybrid horses, particularly those with 25% Cabardin blood, are larger and more resilient than the native Vietnamese breeds. These hybrids typically stand 122 to 125 cm tall and weigh between 200 and 220 kg. The male hybrids with 50% Cabardin blood show improved reproductive characteristics, with higher sperm count and motility. Their appearance is more refined, with longer bodies, flatter backs, and narrower, more streamlined legs. These horses adapt well to Vietnam's climate and farming conditions, offering clear advantages over both the native and imported breeds.

The Clydesdale Horse is a draft breed originally from the farms of Lanarkshire, Scotland, named after the historic region of Clydesdale. Initially part of a smaller draft horse group (Pony breed), it has since evolved into a much larger breed. Clydesdales are typically brown with distinct white markings on their foreheads, a trait linked to the sabino gene.

This breed has traditionally been used for farming and hauling (such as pulling carts) and continues to be employed for draft purposes today. The Budweiser Clydesdales are perhaps the most famous, while others are used as breeding stock for the British Royal Cavalry. Clydesdales were developed from Flemish horses brought to Scotland and bred with local horses. The name 'Clydesdale' was first used in 1826, and by 1830, a system of hiring stallions led to the widespread adoption of Clydesdales throughout Scotland and into northern England. The first studbook was established in 1877.

By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, thousands of Clydesdales were exported worldwide, including to Australia and New Zealand, where they were regarded as a breed “created in Australia.” However, during World War I, the breed’s population declined due to mechanization and wartime demands. This decline continued, and by the 1970s, the Rare Breeds Survival Trust considered the breed endangered. The population saw slight increases due to conservation efforts, but the breed remains vulnerable.

In the 1990s, Clydesdales’ popularity and population began to rise again. By 2005, the Rare Breeds Survival Trust reclassified the breed as 'at risk,' meaning fewer than 1,500 mares were registered in the UK. By 2010, they were again listed as vulnerable. In the US, Clydesdales are monitored by the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy, with fewer than 2,500 mares registered annually, and fewer than 10,000 worldwide. By 2010, it was estimated that there were around 5,000 Clydesdales worldwide, with 4,000 in the US and Canada, 800 in the UK, and others in countries like Russia, Japan, Germany, and South Africa.

Notable Features:

• The physical appearance of Clydesdales has significantly changed over the years. In the 1920s and 1930s, they were smaller compared to breeds like Shires, Percherons, and Belgians. From the 1940s onward, selective breeding aimed to produce taller, more impressive horses for parades and ceremonial events. Today, Clydesdales typically stand between 16 and 18 hands (64 to 72 inches, 163 to 183 cm) and weigh between 1,800 and 2,000 pounds (820 to 910 kg). Some large individuals exceed 18 hands and can weigh up to 2,200 pounds (1,000 kg).
• Clydesdales have a muscular build with a thick neck, broad shoulders, and sloped hips. Their heads are typically straight or slightly convex with wide foreheads and broad muzzles. They are powerful and energetic, with their movement described by the Clydesdale Horse Association as “fun to drive.” Overall, they have an imposing and sturdy appearance, a result of years of careful breeding.
• One health issue affecting Clydesdales is chronic progressive lymphangitis, a condition characterized by swelling, elevated white blood cell counts, and fibrosis of the limbs, similar to chronic lymphatic disease in humans. Another common problem is their lower leg condition, where dense hair can cause a condition known as “Clyde itch,” likely caused by a type of whooping cough. Clydesdales are also prone to sunburn, particularly on pink areas of skin on their faces.
• While the majority of Clydesdales are bay, some are black, gray, or chestnut. Most have white markings on their foreheads in the shape of a blaze, and white markings on their legs, occasionally extending to other parts of the body (usually on the belly). They also have feathering on their lower legs. Roaning, or widespread white spotting, is thought to be due to a genetic albinism factor (Sabino). Some breeders prefer horses with white markings on the face and legs but without body spots.
• To achieve the ideal markings, many breeders aim for horses with one white foot, particularly those with four white legs and evenly distributed sabino markings across the body. Generally, this results in horses with the desired amount of white. Clydesdales lacking the SB1 (Sabino 1) gene, responsible for Sabino expression in many breeds, may carry other genes that influence these patterns. Many buyers are willing to pay more for dark bay or black horses with white feet and face markings. Despite this, breed associations no longer view specific coat colors as undesirable, and horses with occasional body spots are becoming more accepted.

The Andalucian Horse, also known as the Pure Spanish Horse or PRE (Pura Raza Española), originates from the Iberian Peninsula, where its ancestors have lived for thousands of years. Recognized as a distinct breed since the 15th century, its structure has remained largely unchanged over the centuries. Historically, it was renowned for its strength as a war horse and was highly prized by the nobility. It became a diplomatic tool in Spain's foreign relations, with Spanish kings gifting these horses across Europe. However, in the 19th century, war and disease caused a significant decline in the breed’s population, and despite a recovery towards the end of the century, the downward trend continued into the 20th century. Exports of Andalusians from Spain were restricted until the 1960s, but since then, the breed has spread across the globe, though in limited numbers.

The Andalucian is a compact yet elegant horse, known for its thick mane and long tail. While gray is the most common color, they can also appear in various other shades. Famous for their intelligence, sensitivity, and docility, a sub-breed known as the Carthusian is regarded as having the purest bloodlines of the Andalucian, though there is no genetic evidence to support this claim. Over centuries, the breed has been selected for athleticism and endurance. The Andalusian horse typically has a medium-length head with a straight or slightly convex profile, a long and broad neck, a well-defined shoulder, and a large chest. Their legs are generally clean and strong, with minimal tendency toward defects or injury.

Notable Features:

• Famous for their intelligence, sensitivity, and docility, the Andalucian horses are often recognized for their trainability. A sub-breed, the Carthusian, is considered by some as possessing the purest bloodlines of the breed, although this claim lacks genetic evidence. Over many years of development, the Andalucian has been bred for both speed and endurance.
• Andalusian Horses typically have medium-length heads with straight or slightly convex profiles, long and broad necks, and well-defined shoulders and large chests. They are known for having clean legs with minimal issues or injuries.
• A 2001 study compared the kinematic features of Andalusians, Arabians, and Anglo-Arabs while trotting, and found that Andalusians had less pronounced hoof impact when their front hooves landed. A 2008 study revealed that Andalusians are more prone to ischemia (reduced blood flow) in the small intestine than other breeds, and they have a significantly higher incidence of inguinal hernias—30 times more likely compared to other breeds. At the same time, the study found a lower rate of large bowel obstruction. Additionally, Andalusians were found to be at higher risk for laminitis, a medical complication related to intestinal issues.

Quarter Horse, also known as the Quarter Mile Horse, is an American breed developed through the crossbreeding of Thoroughbreds and ancient Spanish horses. These horses were specifically bred for quarter-mile races, giving them their name. Some Quarter Horses have been recorded reaching speeds of up to 88.5 km/h. They are capable of outrunning other breeds, especially in short sprint distances. Typically standing between 1.5 and 1.6 meters tall and weighing around 450 kg, they have broad chests, short necks, and are generally solid-colored. Quarter Horses are often used in ranch work, particularly for herding cattle, where they excel in blocking and guiding livestock back into the herd.

Quarter Horses have refined heads and muscular builds, with powerful, wide chests and round, sturdy hindquarters. They are bred for quick sprints over short distances, typically ranging from 220 to 870 yards. Their long, slender legs aid in speed, while their muscular hindquarters provide the necessary power for fast acceleration. The breed's remarkable sprinting abilities have earned them the title of the 'world's fastest athletes.' As horse racing gained popularity in the colonies, Quarter Horses became increasingly favored due to their prowess in short-distance sprints, which were shorter than traditional British-style races.

Quarter Horses come in a wide range of colors, with the most common being sorrel (reddish-brown), bay (dark brown with black points), and chestnut (red). Other accepted colors include black, brown, palomino, grullo (sometimes called blue-gray), overo, roan, cremello, and white. In the past, patterned coats were not allowed, but with the advent of DNA testing to confirm bloodlines, all colors are now accepted, as long as both parent horses are registered in the studbook.

The Hackney horse breed, also known as the Norfolk Trotter, originates from England and is highly valued for its remarkable agility. The name of the breed is derived from the Anglo-Saxon term 'hnegan,' which means neighbor. This term evolved into the Norman word 'hack,' leading to a Latin origin of the word 'equal.' The historical depth of this breed is evident from its name. The term Hackney was first recorded in the 14th century in England. The Hackney is a recognized breed that was developed in England. In recent decades, breeding efforts have focused on creating horses ideal for driving. They are known for their elegant, high-stepping gait, and are often showcased in driving events. Hackney horses are also known for their endurance and can maintain high speeds over long distances.

The Hackney breed was developed in the 14th century in Norfolk, when the English king requested a breed that was strong yet attractive, with excellent trotting ability, used for general riding purposes. Given the coarse horses of the time, the Hackney became a prominent riding breed and was used as the primary method of horse-drawn transportation. As a result, in 1542, King Henry VIII required his wealthy subjects to keep several horses of this breed, in order to help perpetuate its development.

Key Characteristics:

• Approximately 155 cm in height
• Small, slightly convex head with a sloping face and large eyes. The head is crowned with small, mobile ears that appear to always be alert. The long, arched neck leads to strong shoulders and a broad chest.
• The body is compact and well-formed with a muscular back and rounded ribs.
• Its legs are average in length and well-formed with sturdy, rounded bones. It has significant muscle mass in the forearms and well-defined, long knees.
• The coat is sleek and typically comes in chestnut, dark chestnut, or bay, with bay being the most common. In the early days of the breed, black and tobiano coat colors were also seen, though these are now extinct.
• Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, darker coats like bay and piebald were preferred, as they were better suited for driving events. Lighter shades such as chestnut, golden chestnut, and reddish chestnut were only introduced in the later stages.

The ancestors of this horse breed date back over 3,000 years, with the most commonly recognized being the Nisean horse. However, tracing its exact origins is difficult, as modern horse breeds did not exist before 1600 AD. Instead, horses were categorized by their type or region. This breed bears a strong resemblance and may directly descend from the Turkoman horse, a breed thought to be extinct, although a related line is still bred in Iran today. Other breeds that trace back to the Turkoman include the Yomud, Goklan, and Nokhorli, which some historians believe are different strains of the same breed.

Other ancient breeds that may have contributed to the Akhal-Teke include the Massaget and Parthian horses. It is also claimed that the Akhal-Teke is a descendant of the original Fergana horse, bred in the Fergana Valley as early as 104 BC. The debate still continues as to whether the Arabian horses influenced the Turkoman breed or if the Turkoman horse was developed first, but current DNA evidence points to a common ancestor for both. It is reported that significant numbers of Arabian mares were used to improve the breed in the 14th and 19th centuries. It is also possible that breeds like the Arabian, Turkoman, Akhal-Teke, and Barb all stemmed from a single “Eastern horse” ancestor. Tribes in what is now Turkmenistan were the first to use the Akhal-Teke for raiding.

These horses were highly valued as they were vital to the livelihood and survival of their owners. The breed was selectively bred, with detailed records of bloodlines passed down through oral tradition. Horses were managed and trained with great care. Stallions were tethered near the tents, while mares and foals grazed freely. Breeding horses were covered from head to tail with seven layers of felt, helping to keep their coats short and shiny. Prior to raids, they were placed on a sparse diet to prepare for long desert journeys with little water or food. Known as Argamaks (Sacred Horses) in Russia and Sky Horses in ancient China, they were cherished for their speed, endurance in the desert, and loyalty to their owners. The Han emperors of China conducted two military expeditions to ensure the security of these “sky horses,” and access to them was crucial for China’s military success against its nomadic neighbors.

This breed suffered greatly when the Soviet Union ordered horses to be slaughtered for meat, although local Turkmen people refused to eat them. At one point, only 1,250 horses remained, and exports from the Soviet Union were banned. Today, the government of Turkmenistan uses these horses as diplomatic gifts and occasionally auctions some off to raise funds for equine breeding programs. In the early 20th century, crossbreeding between Thoroughbreds and Akhal-Teke horses was attempted to produce faster long-distance racing horses. However, Anglo Akhal-Tekes proved less resilient than their ancestors, and many perished due to the harsh Central Asian conditions. After a 420 km (260-mile) endurance race from Ashkabad to Moscow in 1935, where the purebred Akhal-Tekes performed much better than their hybrid counterparts, it was decided that all hybrids born after 1936 would no longer be considered purebred. Since 2014, DNA testing based on hair follicles has been sufficient, provided the parents’ DNA is on record. Horses that do not produce the correct type may be excluded. Artificial insemination and embryo transfer are now permitted.

Key Features:

• The Akhal-Teke typically stands between 144 and 160 cm at the shoulder, weighing between 430 and 500 kg. Coat colors vary, with bay being the most common (about 40%), followed by black (22%), chestnut (11%), and other colors such as gray, cream, and gold. The coat often has a distinctive metallic sheen, with some horses displaying an unusual golden effect. This has been said to provide camouflage in the desert.
• Akhal-Teke horses have refined heads, generally straight or slightly convex, with long ears. Their eyes may be almond-shaped or “head-covered.” Their manes and tails are typically sparse. The breed has a long, muscular back, combined with flat hindquarters and an upright neck. The shoulders are sloped, and the skin is thin. Akhal-Tekes are known for their endurance and toughness, having adapted to the harsh conditions of Turkmenistan, where food and water are scarce. This makes them excellent for sports. The breed is particularly renowned for its stamina, as demonstrated in 1935 when a group of Turkish riders completed a 4,000 km (2,500-mile) ride from Ashgabat to Moscow in 84 days, including three days of crossing a 378 km (235-mile) desert without water. Akhal-Tekes are also known for their graceful appearance, often likened to show-jumping athletes.
• The quality of an Akhal-Teke is assessed according to a breeder’s guidebook. Depending on their type, conformation, pedigree, offspring quality, and performance in sports, horses are classified as Elite, Class I, or Class II. Two major events are held annually in Moscow, Russia, called the “International Sports Festival and World Championship” Heavenly Argamak and the “Golden Akhal-Teke Cup Shael,” where breeders present their best horses to a panel of judges. The World Championship event evaluates horses by age, gender, and performance in various sports disciplines.

The Anglo-Arabian Horse breed was developed in the 17th century in England and began to take shape during the 18th century. This was the result of crossbreeding between one of the best mares in England and one of three famous stallions of that time: the Arabian horse, the Barb (North African horse), and the Turkoman (Middle Eastern horse, now extinct). This breed has a large physique, standing between 1.4 to 1.5 meters tall and weighing up to 400 kg, with colors such as bay (reddish-brown) and gray (white coat). Its balanced and powerful build, similar to war horses, contributed to England’s dominant cavalry for centuries. By the late 18th century, the Anglo-Arabian horse began to spread beyond England, reaching the U.S., Japan, Australia, and Europe, and continues to grow in numbers. Today, there are millions of Anglo-Arabians worldwide, with approximately 180,000 new registrations annually. The Anglo-Arabian is considered the most expensive breed in the world. Due to its high value, owning a purebred Anglo-Arabian requires multiple permits and complex procedures.

The registration process for Anglo-Arabian horses is strict, requiring clear documentation of the parents' identity, birthplace, and birthdate—essentially the horse’s “birth certificate.” Records are maintained by authoritative and reputable organizations, ensuring the breed's authenticity. The lineage of an Anglo-Arabian can be traced back over 400 years, to the English mare and one of three stallions imported from Arab, Barb, or Turkoman regions. It is said that after ascending the throne, English envoy Chapman visited Nguyen Nhac, who immediately requested an Anglo-Arabian horse. Emperor Thai Duc was particularly keen on acquiring foreign horses and had Chapman send a letter to the Governor of Bengal, requesting a dark brown horse with small, beautiful, upright ears, to be shipped to the kingdom as soon as possible. Today, in Vietnam, the number of Anglo-Arabians being imported and bred in the Central Highlands is steadily increasing, with 116 horses recorded. The horses are auctioned at horse shows in Australia, with purebred Anglo-Arabians reaching exceptional sizes in Langbiang, some males reaching up to 1.7 meters tall and weighing close to 500 kg.

Key Features:

• The Anglo-Arabian has distinct features such as a light head, a long and slender neck pointing forward, a broad chest, and long legs. Its front legs are naturally bent, with thick tendons and clearly defined bone structures, and its hooves are strong. A mature male Anglo-Arabian stands at 159.0 cm, with a chest circumference of 183.0 cm and a cannon girth of 20.0 cm, while females measure 156.4 cm, 179.2 cm, and 19.2 cm, respectively, with a maximum pulling capacity of 40 kg. Over the past 300 years, the breed has been continuously improved to highlight essential qualities for a warhorse, such as strength, an elegant build, and remarkable speed. The fastest recorded speed for a purebred Anglo-Arabian over a distance of 1 to 3 km can exceed 60 km/h.
• The Anglo-Arabian stallions are castrated at around 1 year and 2 months old by their handlers. They are considered the most superior racing horses in the world today, though their resistance to disease is much weaker compared to other livestock and ponies, making their care quite expensive. The average height of a purebred Anglo-Arabian is 1.7 meters, with their legs measuring 1.0 to 1.2 meters. There are two types of horseshoes: regular shoes for everyday training and specialized aluminum shoes for races, which are replaced every 3 weeks. Due to their physical build—wide chest, large nostrils, and long legs—Anglo-Arabians have exceptional speed, far surpassing any other horse breed.
• Today, only Anglo-Arabians are used in serious horse racing. This breed is the most expensive in the world, with its physical structure (broad chest, large nostrils, long legs) giving it unmatched speed. While racing horses are crucial, there are still many other rare and valuable horse breeds in the world. During races, Anglo-Arabians often stay tightly grouped on the track, even during sharp turns, and rarely collide or fall, despite their large size.
• The registration process for the Anglo-Arabian horse is extremely thorough, almost as complex as a birth registration. Records are meticulously maintained by authorized and respected organizations to preserve the breed’s purity. The lineage of an Anglo-Arabian can be traced back to a mare from England and a stallion from one of three breeds: Arabian, Barb, or Turkoman, imported around 400 years ago. The government ensures the management of the breed to maintain its purity and prevent widespread crossbreeding.

The Trakehner Horse is a warmblood breed originating from Germany. Historically, the breed was developed on a breeding farm in East Prussia, in the town of Trakehnen, from which the breed takes its name. The state-run breeding farms were established in 1731 and operated until 1944, when World War II led to the invasion of East Prussia by Russia, and the town housing these farms was renamed Yasnaya Polyana. The Trakehner is known for its high-quality athleticism and has won numerous international dressage competitions.

Trakehners typically stand between 157 and 173 cm tall. They come in a variety of colors, with bay, gray, chestnut, and black being the most common, although the breed can also include some brown and tobiano pinto patterns. It is considered the lightest and most refined of the warmblood breeds, with registries allowing the entry of Thoroughbred, Anglo-Arabian, Shagya, and Arabian bloodlines into its breeding program.

Key Features:

• An interesting fact about the Trakehner’s coat is that, when the breed was first developed, the color of the coat was taken into consideration. As a result of its diverse coat colors, the breed has some distinctive physiological characteristics. For example, chestnut mares are considered sensitive, with great potential and elegance. The Trakehner is believed to be a descendant of the English Thoroughbred and is the only breed to come from the Hanoverian bloodline, established by a Trakehner stallion.
• In terms of temperament, Trakehners can sometimes display a high level of sensitivity, strength, and resilience. This has made them known as somewhat difficult horses, but when properly trained, they become highly dependable animals.
• Beyond their reputation as dressage horses, farmers have also found Trakehners to be excellent working horses, requiring minimal maintenance. As they were raised initially as work horses, it didn’t take long for them to become exceptional at pulling carts, eventually earning a reputation as elegant draft horses.