Show the best horses win jumping competitions. They have specific characteristics that set them apart from other events like racing. Show jumping requires that the horse jumps over several fences quickly and cleanly. The perfect show jumper must have the ability to jump high and make quick turns and be able to sprint between obstacles. Some breeds of horses are better at performing these functions than others.
This article will help you choose the right breed for your competition level and recommend the top hunter-jumper dogs.
Jumper Characteristics to Look for Before You Buy
Because show jumping involves clearing multiple fences in one performance (called around), horses must be faster on the trot than hunter horses. Show jumping competitions are won by horses that can jump quickly and cleanly and turn sharply without losing form. Show jumping is possible with the horses listed above, but you should look for a light horse that is strong and agile.
Top 8 Breeds That Are Most Suitable for Show Jumping
These are the top 10 most successful hunter-jumper breeds.
- Dutch Warmblood
- Westphalian
- Irish Sport Horse
- Oldenburg
- Selle Francais
- Trakehner
- Hanoverian
- Holsteiner
- American Quarter Horse
- Arabian Thoroughbred
These horses are not ranked in any particular order, as rankings can be subjective. You can go right with any horse you select from the list.
Horse Breeds At The Entry Level
In the least competitive horse jumping competition stage, the Quarter horse should be preferred over a Welsh colt or any other grade horse. Grade horses are not bred from a specific parent and are an excellent choice for beginning hunter-jumping lessons.
Horse Breeds at the Intermediate Level
If you have experience with jumping horses and want to jump to the next level, an Irish draught horse, Trakehner, or racing thoroughbred would be a wise investment. Hot-bloods or Thoroughbreds have been trained for their speed and stamina since childhood. They are the best choice when speed is an advantage.
Level One in Horse Jumping
The Selle Francais and Dutch and Belgian warmbloods, and Westphalians and Oldenburgs, are the best options for top-level competition. WBFSH publishes annual horse rankings that list the pedigrees and performances at competitions.
The Top Characteristics Hunter Derby, Riders, Love Most
- Horse Conformation Having the correct conformation (shape, structure, and shape of the horse’s body) protects them from injuries and increases the Grand Prix Horse Riders’ chances of getting better performance. It is scarce for horses to have a solid pedigree when they are bred to succeed in equestrian competitions.
- A good temperament: Jumper horses must be able to work hard, learn, and be led. You should have a fun and competitive nature. A show jumper must maintain their course even when faced with a daunting challenge.
