Standardbreds are a breed of horse traditionally used for harness racing. They are known for their strength and endurance and are considered to be one of the most versatile breeds of horses. Although they have been bred for racing for many years, Standardbreds have also become popular as riding horses in recent years. In this article, we’ll take a look at the characteristics and traits of Standardbreds and whether they make good riding horses.
What Are Standardbreds?
Standardbreds originate from the Thoroughbred and Morgan breeds of horses. They were bred in the United States in the 19th century and are known for their speed and endurance. They are usually either bay, black, or chestnut in color and are usually between 15 and 17 hands high. Standardbreds are known for their strong, muscular builds and their calm, friendly dispositions.
Characteristics of Standardbreds
Standardbreds are known for several traits that make them desirable as riding horses. They are generally very intelligent and learn quickly, making them easy to train. They also have a lot of stamina and can go for long periods of time without getting tired. They are generally quite calm and responsive, which makes them well-suited to riding.
Standardbreds as Riding Horses
Standardbreds can make excellent riding horses, especially for experienced riders. They are incredibly versatile and can be trained for a variety of different activities, such as dressage, show jumping, and cross-country. They also have a lot of natural ability and can make great show horses.
Pros and Cons of Riding Standardbreds
Pros
- They are known for their intelligence and trainability.
- They have a lot of stamina and can go for long periods of time without getting tired.
- They are very versatile and can be trained for a variety of different activities.
- They have a lot of natural ability and can make great show horses.
Cons
- They can be a bit sensitive and need an experienced rider to handle them properly.
- They can be prone to certain health issues, such as respiratory problems and joint issues.
- They can be a bit high-strung and require a lot of patience to train.
- They can be a bit unpredictable and may not be suitable for beginners.
Training Standardbreds
Standardbreds are generally easy to train, but they do need an experienced rider to get the best out of them. They should always be trained with patience and kindness and never be pushed too hard. It is important to keep training sessions short and fun, and to reward the horse for good behavior. It is also important to keep in mind that Standardbreds can be a bit sensitive and may need extra time to adjust to new environments and training techniques.
Health Considerations for Standardbreds
Standardbreds are generally healthy horses, but they can be prone to certain health issues, such as respiratory problems and joint issues. It is important to keep an eye on their health and to take them to the vet for regular checkups. It is also important to provide them with a balanced diet and to make sure they get plenty of exercise.
Care of Standardbreds
Standardbreds need regular grooming and hoof care to keep them healthy. They should be groomed regularly and their hooves should be trimmed and checked for any abnormalities. They should also be fed a balanced diet and given plenty of exercise to keep them fit and healthy.
Conclusion
Standardbreds can make excellent riding horses, especially for experienced riders. They are known for their intelligence and trainability, as well as their stamina and natural ability. They can be a bit sensitive and require an experienced rider to handle them properly, and they can be prone to certain health issues. With proper care and training, Standardbreds can make great riding horses and will give their riders many years of enjoyment.
References
- Standardbred – Horse Breed Information. (2020, May 27). Retrieved from https://www.horsebreedspictures.com/standardbred-horse.html
- Standardbred Horse Breed Information. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.theequinest.com/horse-breeds/standardbred/
- The Standardbred Horse. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.standardbredcanada.ca/the-standardbred-horse/
- What Are Standardbred Horses? (And Can You Ride Them?) (2020, June 24). Retrieved from https://www.horsemart.co.uk/advice/what-are-standardbred-horses-and-can-you-ride-them/