A reasonably fast learner, the Thoroughbred may require an extra lesson or two, but ultimately learns well. May initially have concentration problems due to preoccupation with fright and/or flight concerns.
General temperament is said to be high-strung and overreactive. Many call the Thoroughbred emotional. This can mask the breed's intelligence by overwhelming a horse's ability to reason making him appear stupid. For example, Thoroughbreds have been known to get hysterical when separated from buddies, crashing through obstacles with self-destructive zeal or flipping over bacward in cross-ties.
When asked to do something he doesn't want to do he may react with fear or flat refusal. Fright is a common reaction with a high flight response. Self-protection impulse tends to be high as well.
**To learn more about this breed, please click here**
Reference: Horse & Rider; November 1998
Thoroughbred Links
The Texas Thoroughbred Association
National Thoroughbred Racing Association
Thoroughbred Owners & Breeders Association
Kentucky Derby - Churchill Downs
Preakness - Pimlico
Belmont Stakes - Belmont
The Breeder's Cup
The Back Stretch
The Performance Horse Registry
The Jockey Club
How to Identify a Thoroughbred
Thoroughbred Times
Background picture courtesy of Meadowbrook Farm
Reference picture courtesy of McDermott Ranch
