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Days in Horse Country – Dutch Warmblood
First created to be a multi-use farm and riding horse, the
Dutch Warmblood is the result of breeding a native Dutch horse with English,
German, and French horses. The Dutch
maintained strict standards for breeding these horses because they were so
important to the livelihood of Dutch farmers.
Horses that were lacking in soundness, intelligence, or disposition were
culled from breeding programs.
Today, the Dutch Warmblood is now considered a world-class equine athlete. They are famous for their jumping abilities, as well as their talents in dressage, three-day eventing, and driving. Dutch Warmbloods stand between 16.2 and 17 hands and come in black, brown, bay, chestnut, and gray. Pinto and roans may turn up as well. They have a distinctive appearance, with an arched, muscled neck, and powerful hindquarters.
Michael