* Breed: Some breeds, like Thoroughbreds, are known for being athletic but may have a shorter lifespan than heavier breeds like Clydesdales.
* Discipline: Show horses in demanding disciplines like jumping or racing may have a shorter competitive career due to the physical strain.
* Care and Management: Excellent nutrition, veterinary care, and training can significantly extend a show horse's active life.
* Individual Health: Like any living creature, some horses are simply more robust and healthy than others.
Here's a more general idea:
* Active Show Career: Most show horses reach their peak performance between 5-8 years old. They can continue competing for several years after that, but their performance may gradually decline.
* Total Lifespan: Show horses, with proper care, can live to be 20-30 years old. Some even live into their 30s or 40s.
It's important to note:
* Retirement: Even when they're no longer competitive, many show horses enjoy a fulfilling retirement with continued care and affection.
* Second Careers: Many show horses find new homes as pleasure horses, trail horses, or even therapy animals.
So, instead of a fixed lifespan, think of a range of possibilities based on the factors mentioned above.