Horse breeds / Rottaler
Photo: Schnittwerk · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Horse breed
Rottaler
The Rottaler is a warmblood-type riding horse from the Rott valley in Bavaria, Germany. It developed from local mares crossed with stallions of heavier and lighter European blood, with the goal of producing a sound, versatile horse for farm work, carriage driving and riding. Breeders in the region have long kept close records and a registry to protect the type.
Rottalers are generally calm, willing and sensible, with a steady nature that suits many riders. Their way of going is athletic and balanced, with good movement that works well for dressage and jumping as well as pleasure riding. Because of their size and steadiness, they are often a comfortable choice for adult riders who want a dependable mount rather than a hot or flighty one.
Day to day, a Rottaler does best with regular work, turnout time and the company of other horses. They need consistent handling and a routine of training that keeps them engaged. Owners should plan for good grooming, hoof care and regular attention to feed and weight, as a horse of this size needs a steady supply of forage.
Good for: Adult riders, dressage, pleasure and trail riding
| Size | large |
| Weight | 1433 lb |
| Height | 63–67 in |
| Life span | 25–30 years |
| Exercise | about 60 min a day |
| Shedding | moderate |
| Origin | Germany |
Rottalers are large horses, so first-time owners should work with an experienced trainer and have a vet check soundness before buying.
Living with a Rottaler
Exercise
A healthy adult Rottaler usually needs about an hour of ridden or in-hand work most days, plus turnout. Too little work can lead to excess energy, stiffness and weight gain.
Grooming
The coat is short and easy to maintain, with a seasonal change in winter. The mane and tail usually need only gentle brushing. Feet should be trimmed or shod regularly, and clipping is only needed for horses worked hard through winter.
At home
Rottalers do well with daily turnout in a paddock or field, and they tolerate cold weather when they have shelter and access to hay. They are generally hardy and handle stabling well when it is needed. They usually get along with other horses and settle into a herd comfortably. Their feed needs are moderate, so most owners find them fairly easy keepers, though body condition should still be checked regularly.
Training
Rottalers learn quickly and respond well to patient, consistent training. They are well suited to dressage, jumping, eventing and pleasure or trail riding. A green Rottaler is usually willing and forgiving, though it may take time to build muscle and balance before taking on demanding work.
Health
Rottalers are generally considered sound, though like many warmbloods they can be prone to joint and hoof issues as they age. Owners should ask a veterinarian about a suitable health and soundness screening plan for this breed.
- Joint problems
- Hoof issues
- Laminitis
Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.
The numbers for a Rottaler
Forage and water, adult
21–36 lb of hay a day
Forage at 1.5–2.5% of body weight at 1433–1433 lb, and 13–23 gallons of water, more in heat and on hay alone. Grain only for the work being done.
What a year costs
$3,700–$6,100
Hay about $2,497, 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 Rottaler 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 Rottaler
Shelters and breed rescues list Rottalers and Rottaler mixes every week. Search adoptable Rottalers on Petfinder → New to the breed? The first-horse kit →
Is a Rottaler right for you?
- Yes if you want a calm, sensible horse for everyday riding
- Yes if you enjoy dressage, jumping or eventing
- Yes if you have room for daily turnout and regular work
- Think twice if you want a small, easy-to-handle pony
- Think twice if you cannot commit to consistent training and feeding
Questions owners ask
Is the Rottaler good for beginners?
Rottalers are calm and willing, but their size and athleticism suit experienced or supported riders best. A good trainer and a sound, well-trained horse make a beginner match much safer.
How much does a Rottaler cost?
Prices vary widely depending on training, pedigree, age and location. Well-trained riding horses typically cost more than young or unbroken ones, so check with breeders and sellers in your area.
How tall is a Rottaler?
Rottalers typically stand about 160 to 170 centimeters at the withers, which is roughly 16 to 16.3 hands. Individual horses can vary somewhat from this range.
How long do Rottalers live?
Rottalers often live into their mid to late twenties with good care. Nutrition, dental care, hoof care and regular veterinary checkups all help support a long, healthy life.
What are Rottalers used for?
Rottalers are used for riding, dressage, jumping, eventing, pleasure riding and trail riding. They were originally bred as versatile farm and riding horses in Bavaria.
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.