- Groningen - |
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 The Groningen originated in the northwestern province of Groningen in the Netherlands and was developed primarily as an all-around versatile horse for use on the farms. The breed evolved through crossing native mares with Oldenburgh, East Friesian, and Friesian stallions, and is characteristically a heavy type of workman horse. They fulfilled the local people's need to carry out all light farm chores, as well as being driven, and also make a good heavyweight riding horse. They were for many years popular as a carriage horse - they were not as flashy as their neighbors the Gelderlanders, but were eminently reliable and could keep going all day. What the Groningen lacks in looks and class, they make up for in stamina, endurance, and usefulness. They have had little influence on other breeds, but have been instrumental in the development of the impressive Dutch Warmblood. From 1945 onward, their numbers have dwindled as the demand for good workhorses has decreased and by the 1970s, they were virtually extinct, with only one pure-bred stallion remaining. Since then, there have been efforts by enthusiasts to preserve the breed with recent infusions of Oldenburgh blood. The Groningen how has improved conformation and is more compact with a better, more sloping shoulder, mainly due to the Oldenburgh. In appearance, the Groningen is a medium-weight stamp with quite plain features, although they have a natural presence and carriage. The head tends to be quite long and plain, with a straight profile and long ears. The neck is very muscular and wide at the base, while the withers are reasonably prominent and long. The shoulders have become more sloping in recent years, having been quite upright, which led to a short stride. They are powerfully built, with a broad and deep chest, and good depth through the girth. The back can be quite long and the croup flat. The quarters are very muscular and the tail is set and carried high. The legs are short by t strong, and the hooves are hard. Typically, the Groningen has an excellent temperament, being willing and kind, and is also an economical feeder. Usually they are any whole color, bay, brown, or black, and stand at between 15.2 and 16 hands high.
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