Latvian Horse

Looks how to spot one

Warmblood

The Latvian Horse is a tall, well-proportioned warmblood with a solid build, strong bones and well-developed muscles. It has a broad chest, a moderately pronounced withers, and legs with well-formed joints. The head is elegant with a longer neck, and the overall appearance is between a saddle horse and a harness horse.23

Personality what they are like

The Latvian Horse is known for its trustworthy and balanced nature. It is calm, docile and reliable, making it suitable for both professional and amateur riders. It has good energy without being overly excitable, and it is easy to handle in harness. Its cooperative and sociable disposition helps it integrate well into a herd and work well with people.45

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Latvian Horses are active and enjoy regular work. They are used for driving, dressage, show jumping, eventing, trail riding and leisure. They need daily exercise and mental stimulation, and they perform well in both harness and under saddle. They are well suited to riding schools and rural tourism.56

Home where they are happiest

Latvian Horses are hardy and adapt well to various climates, but they need a safe, spacious environment with shelter from extreme weather. They should have access to pasture for grazing and a stable or field shelter. They are suitable for rural settings and can thrive in a variety of housing conditions, as long as they have enough space to move and socialise.6

Food basics what goes in the bowl

As a large horse breed, the Latvian Horse needs a diet based on good quality forage such as grass and hay, supplemented with grains or concentrates depending on workload. Fresh water must always be available. They are known for their ability to efficiently utilise feed, but their diet should be balanced to maintain proper body condition.6

Company who they like around

Latvian Horses are social animals and do best when kept with other horses. They are cooperative and integrate easily into a herd. They also form strong bonds with humans and are often used in riding schools, hippotherapy and children's education, where their calm and trustworthy nature is valued.56

The story where it all began

The Latvian Horse was developed in Latvia during the early 20th century by crossing native Latvian horses with western European breeds, mainly Oldenburg, Hanoverian and Holstein. The breed was officially recognised in 1952. Initially, a heavier harness type was favoured, but from around 1960, a lighter riding type was developed by adding Hanoverian, Arab and Thoroughbred blood. The breed has two main types: the Latvian Harness Horse and the Latvian Riding Horse. Today, they are used for sport, leisure and rural tourism, and the heavy type is maintained as a genetic resource.126

Recognised by the official bits

FAO

Endangered-maintained (2007)1