The 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games marked a significant achievement for the United States Dressage team, securing their first team medal since 1948. The horses gracing the podium were predominantly popular dressage breeds, including Hanoverians and Dutch Warmbloods. While warmbloods often dominate the elite levels of dressage, this discipline offers a rich variety of equine partners. The essence of dressage lies in achieving harmony and collection with the horse, making it accessible to riders of all skill levels and various horse breeds.
Understanding Warmbloods
Warmbloods, a category encompassing breeds like Hanoverians, Holsteiners, Westphalians, Oldenburgs, and Dutch Warmbloods, are frequently the top choices for upper-level dressage mounts. These horses are the result of careful crossbreeding of European riding horses. Bethany White, a seasoned judge, clinician, and speaker, notes the evolution of dressage breeding. “The sport was dominated by thoroughbreds decades ago, but as breeding of these warmbloods has gotten better, the chance to breed a horse through artificial insemination (AI) has become more the norm,” she explains. The advancements in AI have facilitated the breeding of more athletic horses, making higher-quality breeding stock more accessible. While Thoroughbreds are still present, warmbloods are now the most prevalent.
Why Are Warmbloods Suited for Dressage?
Warmbloods possess a remarkable combination of athleticism, high-quality gaits, elasticity, and a suitable temperament, although individual variations exist. Many warmbloods are bred with an “uphill” build, a conformation that naturally lends itself to collection – a key criterion evaluated by judges. Developing a high-level dressage horse requires years of conditioning to build muscle, stamina, suppleness, and strength. According to White, an upper-level horse must also possess mental fortitude to withstand both physical and mental fatigue. Finding a horse with the mental capacity for the job can be more challenging than locating a horse with naturally pleasing movement.
Exploring Other Dressage Breed Options
In recent years, Spanish breeds such as the Lusitano and Andalusian have gained increasing traction in dressage competitions. These horses have a history of being used in bullfighting, a demanding discipline requiring extreme athleticism. White observed their movements firsthand in Spain, noting their similarity to horses used in battle – a historical origin of dressage.
Morgans also have a proven track record of success in Grand Prix Dressage and lower-level events. While they may not possess the expansive movement of some warmbloods, Morgans are athletic and willing partners with an uphill conformation. “They can easily put their weight back on their haunches and lift their backs, making them ideal dressage mounts,” White states. Their popularity in upper-level events might be less pronounced as riders often seek larger-moving horses, but Morgans are gaining recognition in lower-level competitions and are well-suited for working equitation, which includes a dressage component.
Small but Mighty: The Underutilized Potential
White highlights the Welsh pony as a unique and underutilized breed excelling in higher-level events. Known for their athleticism and trainability, Welsh ponies often operate in the shadow of taller breeds. “Most pony breeds are never thought of for the upper levels, but look back at ‘Seldom Seen,’ the Connemara X Thoroughbred cross that Lendon Gray won Gold aboard in the Olympics. He was only 14.2!” she exclaims. While warmblood ponies are becoming more popular, the preference for larger horses often prevails.
Dressage for Every Horse Owner
The fundamental principle of dressage – a willing horse moving in collection and in harmony with its rider – makes the discipline accessible to all. Western dressage, in particular, has become a popular choice for riders accustomed to stock-type horses. Emphasizing “lightness and harmony,” Western dressage judges look for relaxation and suppleness. Organizations like the Western Dressage Association of America host competitions dedicated to this discipline. Furthermore, horses registered with breed associations such as the American Paint Horse Association and the American Quarter Horse Association can earn points and prizes by submitting dressage results from approved competitions. White notes that Western dressage is inclusive of all breeds, helping horses develop bend and looseness.
Driven Dressage: A Historical Connection
Dressage originated from cavalry training, and equestrians who prefer driving can also participate in dressage through combined driving competitions. This discipline features three phases: a cross-country course, a cones course, and a driven dressage test. Competitors can drive a single horse, a pair, or a four-in-hand team. A diverse array of horse and pony breeds compete at all levels, including the prestigious FEI World Equestrian Games. The US Equestrian Federation is actively involved in this international, Olympic-style competition.
Making the Right Breed Selection
At its heart, dressage is about artistry and riding in sync with the horse, not against it. Collection, quality of movement, and responsiveness to subtle cues are the cornerstones of the discipline. White stresses the importance of matching the horse to the rider: “Suitability of horse to the rider is a big deal. A lower-level rider can develop feel and awareness on a Quarter Horse, Morgan, Thoroughbred, Appaloosa, or any horse that is suitable to the rider’s ability.” While the competitive circuit often favors warmbloods due to the demand for big-moving horses, riders can learn advanced movements on any trained horse. When selecting a dressage prospect, consider conformation, attitude, and the quality of movement. Many horses of mixed or unknown heritage succeed at lower levels. It’s crucial not to feel pressured into purchasing an expensive horse; instead, focus on temperament, movement, and ensuring the horse aligns with your comfort and goals.
