Dutch Warmblood horses

Profile: After World War II, Dutch farms were becoming mechanized and horses were no longer needed to work the land, but two lighter farm horses, the Gelderlander and the Groningen were used to help establish a new breed. Equestrian sports were on the rise, and the Dutch developed a sporthorse of their own called the Dutch Warmblood. The Groningen had the impressively strong hindquarters needed for jumping and collection. The Gelderlander had a beautiful action highly desired for the basic movement for all sports. Thoroughbred blood was later added to give the horse speed and stamina.

Characteristics: There are three types of Dutch Warmbloods: Riding (dressage and jumping horses), harness (carriage horses) and Gelders (traditional Dutch horses used for harness and under saddle). Elegant, strong and possessing beautiful movement, the Dutch Warmblood stands 16 to 17 hand and is found in all solid colors.

For more information: The North American Department Warmblood Studbook of the Netherlands