Which breed was once called the American Trotting Horse?

The breed that was once referred to as the American Trotting Horse is the Standardbred. This breed originated in the United States in the 19th century and was developed primarily for harness racing. The term "Standardbred" was adopted as it signified horses that were bred to meet specific standards for speed and performance in trotting and pacing, making them highly valued in competitive horse racing circles.

The Standardbred’s lineage includes Thoroughbreds and other breeds, leading to its unique characteristics that enable it to achieve impressive speeds. It is particularly known for its ability to maintain a consistent gait at high speeds, which is essential for harness racing. The breed’s versatility and comfortable riding abilities have also contributed to its popularity beyond the racing world, including in various equestrian disciplines.

Understanding the Standardbred's history as the American Trotting Horse provides insight into how this breed has shaped the equestrian and racing landscape in the United States. Other breeds mentioned, such as the Tennessee Walking Horse, Mustang, and Shetland Pony, serve very different purposes and are characterized by traits distinct from those of the Standardbred.