Standardbreds – All About These Fast and Versatile Horses

What Are Standardbreds? – Definition

A Standardbred is a horse bred specifically for the gait known as the trot – a two-beat diagonal gait in which the legs move in opposite pairs. Standardbreds resist transitioning into a gallop and are characterized by speed, stamina, and stability at the trot. The most well-known breeds include the German Standardbred, the Orlov Trotter, the American Standardbred, and the Italian Trotter.

Origin and History

The history of Standardbreds is closely tied to the development of harness racing, which gained popularity in the 19th century in both Europe and the USA.

Orlov Trotter

Bred in 18th-century Russia, the Orlov Trotter is considered one of the oldest trotting lines.

American Standardbred

Developed in the United States, this breed has had a major influence on modern trotting horse breeding.

German Standardbred

Evolved from crossings of Orlov Trotters, Standardbreds, and French trotters.

Originally, Standardbreds were used not only for racing but also as carriage and workhorses. Thanks to their versatility, they remained popular even after their racing careers ended.

Appearance and Characteristics

Standardbreds are athletic horses built for performance in the trot.

Typical features

• Height: 155–170 cm
• Weight: 450–600 kg
• Build: Long, muscular frame with powerful hindquarters
• Head: Generally straight to slightly concave, expressive eyes
• Colors: Primarily bay, chestnut, black, or gray
• Gait: Ground-covering, rhythmic trot, often with enhanced stride

Temperament of Standardbreds

Temperament is one of the key reasons many horse lovers choose this breed.

They are known to be:

• Calm and even-tempered
• People-oriented
• Eager to learn
• Reliable and confident in outdoor environments

Thanks to their extensive racetrack experience, they remain calm in unfamiliar situations. Many former racehorses transition into ideal leisure horses.

Fields of Use

• ‍Harness Racing: The primary discipline, where horse and driver compete for top times while the horse pulls a sulky.
• ‍Leisure Horse: Many Standardbreds find a second home after racing, serving as trail, leisure, or family horses.
• ‍Driving Horse: Their strong pulling instinct and endurance make them excellent carriage horses.
• ‍Riding Horse: Though not trained to gallop in racing, Standardbreds can easily be retrained as saddle horses.

Famous Standardbreds – Legends of Harness Racing

Clever Hans – A Horse with Mathematical Talent

The Orlov Trotter “Clever Hans” (1895–1916) gained worldwide fame: a scientific committee examined his ability to count – and found no trick. A curious case blending myth and animal intelligence.

Sea Cove – Germany’s Fastest Standardbred

Sea Cove is the most successful German racehorse of modern times: 54 wins in 111 starts and over €2.2 million in prize money – a true superstar of German harness racing.

Greyhound – The Great Grey Ghost

The American Standardbred “Greyhound” (born in 1932) won the Hambletonian Stakes, set mile records, and earned the nickname “The Great Grey Ghost.” His mile record stood until 1969.

Varenne – The Greatest of All Time?

An Italian trotter born in 1995, Varenne won 62 of 73 races, including international classics like the Prix d’Amérique and Elitloppet. Triple Horse of the Year in multiple countries and a Hall of Fame inductee.

Järvsöfaks – The Coldblooded Record-Breaker

This coldblood trotter (1994–2020) won 201 out of 234 races, setting records for both victories and speed (1:17.9/km), and dominated the scene for 12 years.

Sebastian K – Swedish Speed Icon

Bred in Sweden, Sebastian K showed incredible speed: record 1:07.8 min/km, with major victories like the Sundsvall Open Trot and UET Trotting Masters.

Sundons Gift – Elite Trotter from Australia

With 10 Group 1 wins, he dominated racing in Australia and New Zealand, winning events like the Inter Dominion and Rowe Cup. He even competed at the Elitloppet in Sweden and now enjoys retirement.

Care and Management

Standardbreds are robust horses that require plenty of exercise.

Recommended practices include:

• Open-stable housing or ample pasture time
• Daily turnout and mental stimulation
• Balanced, energy-rich diet for sport horses
• Regular hoof care (Standardbred hooves are often very sturdy)

After a racing career, they often need a transitional period to adjust to life as a leisure horse.

Health and Life Expectancy

How old do Standardbreds get?

With proper care, Standardbreds live to be around 25–30 years. They are generally healthy and resilient. However, joints and tendons may show signs of wear from racing, so a veterinary check before purchase is essential.

Buying a Standardbred – Tips

When buying a Standardbred, consider the following:

• Check origin and registration (e.g. studbook or breed registry)
• Veterinary health check
• Evaluate temperament and handling
• Clarify: riding or driving use?

Organizations like Traber in Not (Standardbreds in Need) often help rehome retired racehorses – a great way to give a second chance to a deserving animal.

Standardbreds in Equestrian Sports

Can you actually ride a Standardbred?

Yes – with some patience, Standardbreds adapt well to saddle work. Many develop a pleasant canter and become reliable trail horses.

Tips for retraining

• Gradual introduction to the canter
• Varied, engaging training
• Focus on balance and suppleness

Overview of Standardbred Breeds

• German Standardbred
• Orlov Trotter
• French Trotter
• American Standardbred

Each breed has its own strengths but is primarily bred for harness racing.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Standardbreds

What kind of horses are Standardbreds?

‍Horses specifically bred for the trotting gait to perform at high levels in harness racing.

How old do Standardbreds get?

‍Generally 25–30 years with good care.

Can you ride a Standardbred?

‍Yes, with proper training, they make excellent leisure horses.

How much does a Standardbred cost?

‍Depending on age, training, and pedigree, prices range from €1,000 to €10,000 – sometimes less through rescue organizations like Traber in Not.