Due to the worldwide Great Depression, only 31 entries from 6 nations competed—which was to be the lowest participation of any Olympic Games.

The dressage had 10 riders from 4 nations, and was held on the Riviera Country Club's polo field.

A controversy arose after Swedish rider Bertil Sandström was accused of clicking to his horse, which was not allowed under FEI rules.

Sweden's Arne Francke was eliminated during the cross-country phase, so only team gold (United States) and silver (The Netherlands) were awarded.

A total of 31 horse riders from 6 nations competed at the Los Angeles Games: Appointment of officials was as follows:[3]