Origins: The American Saddlebred was developed in Kentucky, USA, in the 19th Century by plantation owners. Its origins go back to the importation of English stock - the English Thoroughbred.

Characteristics: Narrow refined head with large honest eyes, long upright neck, deeply sloping athletic shoulders, good deep barrel, strong hindquarters with level croup, long refined legs. Tail and neck are carried high, with good natural poll flexion. High stepping motion off powerful springy hocks

Height: 15 to 16.2 hands

Color: Chestnut in all its shades predominates, with browns, blacks and bays available and also there are Saddlebreds that have been especially bred for the palomino and pinto colours. Greys also occur.

Personality: Alert, intelligent, eager and gentle