Danish Warmblood
Origin
Denmark
History
In the 14th century horse breeding in Denmark relied upon the monastic studs of Holstein, a Danish duchy until 1864 and much later, the royal stud of Frederiksborg. For many years the policy was to cross heavy North German mares with Spanish stallions, to produce horses like the Frederiksborg and the Holsteiner.
Nevertheless, Denmark, like the Netherlands, did not have a national riding horse until fairly late. Although a Danish equestrian federation existed as early as 1918, it was not until the 1960s that a studbook was opened for the Danish Sports Horse, which has since become known as the Danish Warmblood.
The basis for the new breed was the old Fredriksborg stock crossed with the Thoroughbred to produce an active riding horse. These half-bred mares were put to Anglo-Norman stallions (essentially Selle Francais) and to Thoroughbreds, Trakehners and the Wielkopolski.
Danish riding horse breeders have been able to utilize their knowledge of sport requirements of the horse. The result is that Danish horses are now in demand by riders from all over the world.
Description
- Conformation:
it is a sound, handsome horse of Thoroughbred type but with substance, strength, and good limbs, which are very powerful with strongly muscled forearms, clean joints, short cannons, and ample bone below the knee. The hocks in the Danish horses are noticeably large and correct in their formation. Particular attention is paid to the quality, shape, and wearing properties of the hooves. Uneven or diseased hooves are rarely found. - Average height:
15.3 to 17 h.h. - Temperament: agreeable, courageous
- Today:
the Danish Warmblood is an arresting and sometimes brilliant dressage horse, and some of them are excellent cross-country prospects as well.
