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The Dutch Warmblood Horse is a relatively new breed, one
that has recently developed into an extremely successful, versatile riding
horse. The Netherlands has always had an excellent reputation for husbandry
skills, both in the breeding of animals and plants, and this includes the
breeding of top-rate competition horses. With the advent of mechanization, there
has been a move away from the harness and draft horse towards the lighter riding
horse. The Dutch Warmblood combines the greatest elements of both the Groningen
and the Gelderlander, also with Thoroughbred, Trakehner, and Oldenburgh blood.
Thoroughbred blood was introduced to the Dutch Warmblood
breed to add quality, refinement, speed, and courage, and throughout the
addition, breeders were able to maintain the fundamental sensibility and calm
temperament of the Warmblood. Although Dutch Warmblood stallions are owned by
individuals, the breeding of the horse is monitored by the state-aided Warmbloed
Paardenstamboek Nederland. Stallions may only be used for breeding if they pass
the incredible testing process, in which the stallions have to maintain a very
high standard of selective breeding. All aspects of the stallion are judged,
from temperament and aptitudes to athletic ability and intelligence.
Conformation and movement are also important factors. They have their lower legs
and feet X-rayed to make sure any conformation faults are eliminated.
Mares also are tested, and the resulting offspring are closely monitored to
track their success or failure as a breed standard. This process of testing is
one of the most sophisticated approaches used in the world, and as a result, has
led to the quick growth and success of this new breed.
Dutch Warmbloods are often extremely attractive, with
free-flowing, extravagant movement that has given it its fame around the world
in the dressage genre. It also has a very athletic status with an excellent
natural jump. Many times over these horses have been used for jumping
competitions of the highest caliber.
Usually the Dutch Warmblood has a well-proportioned head
with a wide forehead and a well-proportioned, muscular neck in relation to the
body. They have broad, deep chests with sloping shoulders, straight backs,
powerful hindquarters, and a well-set tail. The legs are strong and clean with
good joints and tough, well-shaped feet. Dutch Warmbloods are usually bay, gray,
chestnut, or black, and stand between 15.3 and 16.3 hands high.
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