Intro
Also called Trotteur Belge and Belgische Draver, the Belgian Trotter follows in the tradition of European Trotters. Popular in a time when horse racing was among the more accessible of vices.
Origins
This trotter originally comes from cross breeding local carriage and riding horses with a sprinkle of imported Thoroughbred blood. Later they were influenced by American Standardbred, along with German and French Trotters, although the Belgian tends to be a bit smaller and lighter.
According to the DAD-IS as of 2013 there were between 442-663 purebred animals left.
Features
Average height 15.7-16.7 hands
Physique
Head is large with a straight or convex profile
Neck is short
Body is compact
Legs are long and strong
Traditional Colors
Temperament
High spirited and fast
Use
Harness racing
Helpful Links
Vlaamse Federatie voor Paardenwedrennen