What is the absolute best breed for dressage? Maybe it is the Warmblood with their flashy movement and huge strides? Or maybe it is the Andalusian with their talent for the collected work? Or the elegance of the Thoroughbred?
The truth is that there is no best breed for dressage because dressage is for all breeds. That’s right, any horse can excel at dressage. Some breeds may have more natural talent or a flashier movement and there is nothing wrong with that. But dressage shouldn’t be about having the prettiest horse or winning the most ribbons. Competition can be part of dressage but it shouldn’t be the primary focus or goal. True dressage is about continually helping the horse to become a better version of himself.
When that is your goal, you realize that any horse can be successful. They may not all go to the Olympics and they may not all be very flashy, but they can all become a stronger, more supple, and healthier version of themselves. They can all learn how to carry themselves better, how to become soft in the bridle, and how to do many of the more advanced dressage movements. Most breeds are even able to learn some piaffe steps, something many people may think is unattainable.
I’ve worked with many different breeds of horse over the years. Here are some of them:
- Andalusian
- Lusitano
- Friesian
- Warlander
- Paint
- Pinto
- Quarter Horse
- Clydesdale
- Percheron
- Appaloosa
- Morgan
- Irish Sport Horse
- Irish Draft
- Minature Horse (trained in long reins)
- Thoroughbred
- Appendix
- Tennessee Walker
- Saddlebred
- Arabian
- Mustang
- Various breeds of Warmblood
- Spotted Draft
- Halflinger
- Gyspy
As you can see this list covers everything from the tiny miniature horse all the way up to large draft horses and even gaited horses. If you think you need to have a fancy horse before getting started in dressage, think again! The horse you have can do dressage! And if someone tells you that you need a fancier horse or a different breed then they do not understand the true purpose of dressage.
Dressage: helping your horse become a better version of himself.
Your Thoughts
What breed of horse do you ride? Tell us in the comments!
Learn More
Interested in learning more about dressage training? We offer lessons and training at Dover Stables in Waterford, WI and travel throughout the Midwest to do clinics in dressage and liberty training. Contact us to start your journey towards a better connection with your horse!
