The Guinness Record! How Long Do Horses Live? Ages Compared to Humans

Have you ever wondered about the average lifespan of horses? While racehorses are often introduced as three- or four-year-olds, does that mean they are still young, lively youth, or fully mature adults? The favorite horse that carries you on its back—is it an older or a younger horse compared to you? Understanding this can make your interactions with horses even more enjoyable.

What Is the Average Lifespan of Horses?

Are you curious about the average lifespan of horses? Racehorses are often introduced as three- or four-year-olds, which in human years, are they still children, energetic youngsters, or mature adults? The horses that carry us, especially the ones we love,—are they older than us or younger? Knowing this makes spending time with them even more fun.

Average Horse Age

The average life expectancy of horses is roughly estimated to be between 23 to 30 years, assuming no injuries or diseases. When a horse’s health deteriorates due to injury or illness, euthanasia often becomes the humane option. From an animal welfare perspective, euthanasia is seen as a compassionate measure to prevent unnecessary suffering.

Differences by Body Size

Interestingly, the average lifespan of horses varies with their body size, much like dogs. In general, smaller horses such as ponies tend to live longer than large horses, and horses kept by humans tend to live longer than wild ones. This may be due to advances in veterinary care and human intervention.

Do Different Horse Breeds Have Different Lifespans?

Before discussing horse longevity, let’s look at how age is counted in horses. Did you know that the way we count age differs from humans? Humans age by birthdays—each birthday marks a new year. Horses, however, are considered to become one year older every January 1st, regardless of their actual birth date. This method has been used since 2001. Before that, horses’ ages were estimated by the wear of their teeth, especially when origin records were unclear.

Racehorses

The average lifespan of thoroughbred racehorses is known to be around 24 to 25 years. While their typical lifespan is considered to be 23 to 30 years, racehorses are subject to intensive training and physical stress, which can lead to shorter lifespans. Injuries and illnesses during races may result in euthanasia.

Horseback Riding Horses

Most riding horses are not bred specifically for riding; many are retired racehorses that are retrained for riding. At riding clubs, horses aged 8-20 are actively used. Horses over 20 are often moved to retirement farms for their remaining years. Interestingly, horses used mainly for riding tend to have longer lifespans than those dedicated to racing.

Horse Age vs. Human Age

As previously mentioned, the way we count age differs between horses and humans. Humans age by birthdays each year, whereas horses are regarded as aging by January 1st regardless of birth date, a system adopted officially in 2001. Before that, horse ages were estimated based on dental wear when registration records were missing. Let’s compare horse ages and human ages, and see what notable differences or features there are.

Just a Few Days Old

Newborn foals can stand and nurse about 2 days after birth, which roughly translates to about 2 human years.

Around Six Months Old

By this time, their bodies are larger, and they start weaning. In human years, this is comparable to about 3-6 years, similar to kindergarten age.

Ages 1-2 (Horse Age)

Horses grow rapidly. By 1-2 years, they become sufficiently mature and start riding training. Human equivalents are approximately 6-15 years old​—middle childhood to early adolescence.

Ages 3-6 (Horse Age)

Most horses reach adulthood around 5 years old. They are young, energetic, and often active as racehorses. This is their youth period.

Ages 7-14 (Horse Age)

While some horses still race during this time, their physical peak has passed. Despite the decline in physicality, their mental maturity makes this a great age for competition, including Olympic-level riding. Horses aged 8+ or show jumping horses aged 9+ are often competitors—equivalent to humans in their 30s.

Ages 15 and Older

Corresponding to middle-aged and senior humans, these horses might gradually lose their strength and develop health issues, with some becoming more independent and less playful.

Over 20 Years Old

Like octogenarians and above in humans, these horses are considered quite old. They should spend their days peacefully with minimal exertion. They often have thinner bodies and bony structures.

How Long Do Horses Live? What Is the Guinness World Record?

In human society, the celebration of longevity often begins at 60 years, with the traditional 60th birthday. But in today’s era of