Origin
Holland
History
The Dutch Harness Horse, or Tuigpaard as it is known in its native country, was developed in the Netherlands over 100 years ago as one aspect of the Dutch Warmblood breeding program. Dutch Warmbloods of every type trace their heritage primarily to two historic Dutch breeds, the Gelderlander of southern Holland and the Groninger of northern Holland, which were then selectively crossed with German, French, and English horses, as well as occasional infusions of Arabian and Thoroughbred blood.
When mechanization made the working farm horse superfluous, the pleasure of the Tuigpaard was transferred to the show arena. While many breeders began to concentrate on riding horses, the exceptional carriage type generated enthusiasm among a select group of farmers who chose to continue their efforts with and commitment to the breeding of their show horses.
The Tuigpaard breeders were quick to organize and formed their own program for stallion and mare selection based on presence and movement. They introduced some Hackney blood, which increased the class and hard trotting action of the horses, and most recently a few select American Saddlebreds have been accepted as breeding stock.
The Dutch Harness Horse bases its selection of stallions and mares for registration as breeding stock on very strict standards of soundness, way of going, and "presence" - that intangible yet easily recognized show horse attitude.
Description
- Conformation:
he is upheaded, with a distinctive, proud self-carriage. His trot in particular is incredible, with the hocks providing the drive and height that allows him to fully engage his shoulder and lift the foreleg in a high, open motion. At its highest point, there is a distinct moment of suspension in the trot which is truly remarkable - Average height:
16.2 h.h. - Colours:
the Dutch Harness Horse is most commonly seen in various shades of chestnut, bay, brown and black, although color itself is not a limiting factor for acceptance for registration. - Temperament:
the underlying qualities of all Dutch horses are especially present in the Tuigpaard-good temperament, willingness to work, and soundness - Today:
the Dutch Harness Horse is first and foremost a show horse. Shows also frequently offer classes for pairs, tandems, and four-in-hands, in which the similarity of the horses and the whip's driving ability are both part of the judging criteria.
