Enjoy 30 of the most popular breed profiles ever published in Horse Illustrated magazine for a well-rounded anthology of draft horses, gaited breeds, sport horses, stock breeds, ponies and a few rare breeds for a dash of something different. Every year, Best of Breeds is refreshed with all-new spectacular photography and several new breeds from the past publication year. In each profile, you'll find fascinating history and a bit about what makes each breed unique. Whether you ride, drive, or simply prefer to admire horses, you're sure to love Best of Breeds. Makes a great gift for the horse lover in your life!
A Horse for Everyone
Best of Breeds 2024
Akhal-Teke • This ancient breed continues to delight enthusiasts with its athletic accomplishments, intelligence, and signature golden gleam.
American CREAM DRAFT • Dedicated Cream Draft fans are working to keep America’s only native draft breed around.
THE Andalusian AND Lusitano • These Iberian breeds have long been admired for their beauty and many talents.
Appaloosa & Knabstrupper • Both of these modern breeds descend from spotted Spanish stock that existed hundreds of years ago.
Arabian HORSE • The most influential breed in human history, the Arabian has an instantly recognizable beauty.
The Brabant • The oldest draft breed is still treasured for its massive strength and kind disposition.
The CLYDESDALE • This iconic draft breed holds an important spot in horse lovers’ hearts.
Connemara Pony • The pride of the Emerald Isle is a versatile pony loved by children and adults alike.
TAKING A GAMBLE
Dutch Warmblood • This beautiful breed is made to excel at the highest levels of sport, and its owners fall in love with its friendly personality.
The Friesian • This fairytale breed has a fascinating history of hard work as well as modern-day ability.
Gypsy VANNER • This versatile breed is beloved for its sweet temperament and extra-flashy locks.
The Haflinger • From the Alps to America, this eye-catching breed has proven to be perfect for the whole family.
Icelandic HORSE • The land of fire and ice has created the ultimate hardy purebred.
The LIPIZZAN • A history of war and airs above ground has made a horse that is still beloved for dressage and driving today.
Mangalarga Marchador • Brazil’s gaited beauty is more than an exotic rarity.
MINIATURE HORSE • This pint-sized breed offers personality plus.
Missouri FOX TROTTER • The smooth-gaited horse of the Ozark Mountains is beloved on the trails, but it can do just about anything.
MORGAN HORSE • Whether English, western, or driving is your sport of choice, the Morgan excels.
American MUSTANG • A symbol of the American West, Mustangs have an undeniable spirit.
Norwegian FJORD • The horse of the Vikings is more than a cute face—they can also do it all.
American PAINT HORSE • A workmanlike stock horse with extra chrome, Paint Horses stand out no matter the job.
Paso FINO • This smooth-gaited horse from South America wows with spirit and rideability.
Peruvian HORSE • This smooth-gaited beauty from South America makes the perfect partner for hitting the trails.
American QUARTER HORSE • The go-to horse for ranch work is also recognized in the performance pen.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN Horse • This smooth-gaited breed is ideal for all members of the family, whether beginners, endurance riders or drivers.
American SADDLEBRED • The versatile American Saddlebred has lots more to offer than its trademark show-ring flash.
THE Standardbred • Much more than a...