Horse breeds / German Trotter
Photo: Hartmut Reiche · CC BY-SA 3.0 de · Wikimedia Commons
Horse breed
German Trotter
The German Trotter, or Deutscher Traber, was developed in Germany as a harness racing horse, bred for speed and stamina at the trot over long distances. Breeders drew on Standardbred and other trotting lines, and the breed grew out of a long tradition of harness racing in Germany and neighboring countries.
German Trotters are typically calm, willing, and sensible, with a strong work ethic. Many were retired from racing and retrained for driving, trail riding, or light dressage, and they are generally forgiving enough for experienced amateurs. Their trot is ground-covering and rhythmical, and their gaits are usually straightforward to sit.
Day to day, they need regular turnout, steady work, and the company of other horses. Because they were bred for athleticism, they tend to do best with a consistent routine that keeps both body and mind occupied.
Good for: Experienced amateurs, driving enthusiasts, trail riders
| Size | large |
| Weight | 1102–1323 lb |
| Height | 61–67 in |
| Life span | 25–30 years |
| Exercise | about 60 min a day |
| Shedding | moderate |
| Origin | Germany |
Choose a well-started, experienced horse, since young trotters often need retraining before they are relaxed for novice riders.
Living with a German Trotter
Exercise
Most German Trotters need daily work and ample turnout to stay fit and balanced. Without enough exercise they can become bored, overweight, or restless, and their topline may soften.
Grooming
Their short, dense coat is easy to maintain with regular brushing and occasional bathing. Manes and tails are typically left natural or lightly thinned, with no feathers to manage. Hooves need regular trimming or shoeing every four to eight weeks.
At home
German Trotters are generally hardy and adapt well to a range of climates when given shelter from wind and wet. Many do well in group turnout, and they usually settle when kept with compatible companions. Most are fairly easy keepers on good hay and a balanced ration, though horses in heavy work may need extra calories and electrolytes.
Training
German Trotters tend to learn quickly and respond well to patient, consistent handling. They are often well suited to driving, trail work, and basic dressage, and many show a natural aptitude for the trot. A green horse of this breed may still be learning to balance under saddle, so expect a steady, gradual progression rather than rapid results.
Health
Like many warmblood and trotting breeds, German Trotters can be prone to general soundness issues associated with hard work, such as joint and tendon strain. Ask your veterinarian about a suitable pre-purchase exam and an ongoing preventive care plan for your horse.
- Joint and tendon strain
- Hoof problems
- Respiratory issues
Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.
The numbers for a German Trotter
Forage and water, adult
18–30 lb of hay a day
Forage at 1.5–2.5% of body weight at 1102–1323 lb, and 11–19 gallons of water, more in heat and on hay alone. Grain only for the work being done.
What a year costs
$3,300–$5,550
Hay about $2,102, plus farrier every 6–8 weeks, routine vet, dental and dewormer. Board, lessons and showing on top; US averages.
Weather
Watch above 80°F, stop at 90°F
Blanket or shelter below 10°F. Horses mind heat more than cold: with shelter and water most are fine to about 10°F unclipped, and above a heat index of 150 (air °F + humidity %) ride early or not at all.
Where a German Trotter is comfortable
Easy most of the year: Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Washington, DC, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.
Summer needs care (early rides, shade, fans): Arizona, Nevada, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah.
Winter needs care (blanket, shelter, water that is not frozen): North Dakota.
From typical July highs and January lows by state and this breed's heat and cold limits. Shade, shelter and water change everything; this is about turnout and work.
Right now
Latest feed recalls
Multiple Brand Names: Chicken Feed, Swine Feed, Cattle Feed, Horse Feed
ADM Animal Nutrition · Apr 1 · Specific lots may contain elevated levels of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium and/or chloride and may harm chickens, swine, beef cattle and equine.
Rescue a German Trotter
Shelters and breed rescues list German Trotters and German Trotter mixes every week. Search adoptable German Trotters on Petfinder → New to the breed? The first-horse kit →
Is a German Trotter right for you?
- Yes if you enjoy driving or harness work
- Yes if you want a calm, steady trail partner
- Think twice if you want a fast-maturing jumper
- Think twice if you have very limited time for daily work
- Yes if you can provide consistent routine and turnout
Questions owners ask
Is the German Trotter good for beginners?
Many are calm and sensible, but a horse with solid training and a steady temperament suits beginners best. Ride a well-started horse with an experienced trainer.
How much does a German Trotter cost?
Prices vary widely with training, pedigree, and age. Retired racehorses may be affordable, while well-trained performance horses cost considerably more.
How tall is a German Trotter?
Adults typically stand about 155 to 170 centimeters at the withers, roughly 15 to 16.5 hands, though individuals vary.
How long do German Trotters live?
With good care they often live into their mid to late twenties or beyond. Regular veterinary and dental care supports a long, healthy life.
What are German Trotters used for?
They are used for harness racing, driving, trail riding, and light riding disciplines. Many are retired from racing and retrained for second careers.
Similar breeds
Written by Hoofdeck editors · updated Nov 13, 2026 · facts from Wikidata and Wikimedia Commons; health notes are general veterinary guidance, not a diagnosis.