Breed Spotlight: German Warmbloods

The term German Warmblood refers to certain regional horse breeds in Germany like the Oldenburg, the Holsteiner, the Hanoverian, the Westphalian, and the Trakehner. All Warmbloods in Germany are named after the region in which they are bred except for the German Warmblood horse, the Trakehner. The original German Warmbloods were bred to be an all-purpose agricultural, riding, carriage, and cavalry horse. The term Warmblood is meant to indicate the horse descended from a strategic combination of cold blooded (draft horse types) and hot-blooded imports (Thoroughbreds, Arabians, etc.) that are bred specially for disciplines such as dressage, stadium jumping, and eventing starting in the early to mid-20^th century. They are carefully developed group of horses, bred to be of medium build, average weight, and average height and a fairly even temperament. Warmbloods were introduced to the U.S. market in the 1950s. Unfamiliar with the intricacies of the European breeding system, many American breeders mistakenly identified the various types of Warmbloods as different breeds. As a result, they tried to keep the bloodlines separate from one another. Oldenburg: A breed from the north western corner of lower Saxony. They are tall sport horses with excellent gaits and jumper abilities. They were originally bred in the 16^th and 17^th century by Count Johann in the Oldenburg region to be used as a carriage horse. Holsteiner: A breed of the horse originating in the Schleswig Holstein region of northern Germany. It is thought to be the oldest of Warmblood breeds. Though the population is not large, Holsteiners are a dominant force in international show jumping. Hanoverian: A breed originating in Germany which are often seen in the Olympic games and other competitive English riding styles. Fun fact: This breed has won gold medals in all 3 Olympic equestrian competitions. The breed is known for their good temperament, athleticism, beauty, and grace. Trakehner: A light warmblood bred horse, originally developed at the East Prussian State stud farm in the town of Trakehner, from which the breed takes its name. They are noted for a beautiful appearance and resemble a Thoroughbred, having a small head. They make excellent jumpers, dressage athletes, and combined training horses. Warmbloods offer endless opportunities for the sport horse enthusiast. The different types of Warmbloods, each with their own distinct characteristics, offer riders of all levels and interests the opportunity to pursue their equestrian goals. Watch our German Warmblood Vlog below!