The American Saddlebred

The American Saddlebred differs from other horses in conformation, temperament, and heritage, giving him unique and desirable qualities. While Saddlebreds are extremely alert and curious, they are highly intelligent, people-oriented horses. Most Saddlebreds are said to possess that indescribable quality – personality, which endears them to their owners and admirers.

The American Saddlebred horse is easily identified, as he differs from other breeds in the head and neck, the feet and legs, and the top line. The breed presents a well-proportioned horse with an average height of 15 to 16 hands and weight of 1,000-1,200 pounds. The American Saddlebred comes in any color, but chestnut, bay, and black are most popular. However, there are also grays, roans, Palominos, and Pintos. The conformation of the American Saddlebred enables him to perform well at almost anything asked of him.

The American Saddlebred, often called the "peacock of the show horse world," is perhaps best known for his brilliant show ring performances as a three gaited, five gaited, and fine harness horse. His unique athletic ability, willing, trainable temperament and remarkable work ethic, no matter what the task set before him, have earned "the horse America made" the highest regard of horse people of all ages, around the world.

The Saddlebred’s versatility sets him apart from almost every other light breed of horse. His intelligence and sane, reasonable approach to virtually any adventure allow him to enjoy a pleasant trail ride, perform the exacting points of dressage, have the adaptability to compete in eventing, tackle the obstacles in a Grand Prix jump course, be elegant hitched to a carriage and have the strength and speed to engage in combined driving tests, have the stamina to finish an endurance ride or complete a competitive trail ride, and are testament to his unflappable good sense.

Information found on the  ASHA website