Like most of the sport horse or warmblood breeds, the Português de Desporto or Portuguese Sport Horse is more of a type. Registered based on performance, registries utilize a mix of excellent genetics from different breeds to generate animals with good temperament and athletic ability.
Origins
There is not a lot of official information about their studbook, but like most of the sport horse types they are bred specifically for competitive equestrian sports. Some registries will separate types based on the sport they are bred for, generally dressage, jumping and eventing. The Portuguese specific strain is likely to contain Lusitano blood, along with other European warmbloods and Thoroughbred.
Features
Average height 15.7-16.7 hands
Physique
Varies based on type and bloodlines used.
Conformation must be harmonious to some degree
Traditional Colors
Solid colors
Temperament
Sport horse registries discourage registration of temperamental or aggressive animals
Use
Sport
Dressage
Jumping
Eventing
Riding
Helpful Links
Portuguese Association of Select Breeders
Portuguese Equestrian Federation