Joey's first owner and best friend, who grows up with Joey on a farm and shares a deep bond of trust and affection with the horse, striving to reunite with him after they are parted by war.

A tall, shining black stallion admired for his beauty and prowess, who becomes Joey’s closest friend among the war horses, providing strength and courage during their shared challenges.

Joey's original owner who initially buys him out of spite, but despite harshness and flaws, including a tendency towards drunkenness, is portrayed as having a complex, often misunderstood nature.

A tall and elegant British soldier who purchases Joey to serve as his war horse and demonstrates kindness and understanding, forming a respectful bond with him.

A gentle and family-oriented young man, assigned to ride Joey after Captain Nicholls's death, who struggles with horsemanship but cherishes his bond with the horse.

A kind and gentle older German soldier considered eccentric by his peers, who befriends Joey and Topthorn amidst the war, and whose empathy and reluctance for battle shine through his interactions.

A spirited thirteen-year-old girl living on a French farm where Joey and Topthorn are stationed, who shares a special bond with the horses and shows unwavering affection.

Living on the farm with Emilie, he is a kind and hardworking figure who deeply loves his granddaughter and faces significant personal losses during the war.