Origin
Germany
History
The breed takes its name from Schleswig-Holstein, the northernmost region of Germany. The Jutland stallion Munkedal, through his inbred descendants, is virtually the foundation sire of the Schleswig breed. Initially, in the first part of the 19th century, the Yorkshire Coach Horse and even the Thoroughbred were used. Selective breeding based on the Munkedal line was practiced from 1860. In 1888, a breed standard was recognized, and in 1891, the Society of Schleswig Horse Breeding Clubs was formed. By the end of the 19th century, the Schleswig Horse had evolved as a draft horse of medium size that was much in demand for pulling buses and trams.
To maintain the breed, crosses with the Jutland were made regularly until 1938. After that, strict selection was practiced within the breed in an effort to eradicate conformational deficiencies. To accelerate this process of improvement, a Boulonnais, a Breton and a Suffolk Punch stallion were introduced, Oppenheim LXII, the Suffolk stallion having the greater influence.
The Schleswig population has decreased greatly as its traditional functions have been taken over by machines.
Description
- Head:
well proportioned with a slightly convex profile, pricked up ears, and small eyes - Conformation:
-short, muscular and crested neck
-very powerful, muscular and somewhat straight shoulders
-low and broad withers
-strong and short back
-full and round croup
-short, muscular legs with strong joints and feathering on the lower leg
-the feet tend to be flat and soft - Average height:
15.2 to 16 h.h. - Colours:
predominantly chestnut with a flaxen mane and tail. Some bays and greys also occur - Temperament:
good, docile disposition - Today:
breeders are encouraged to keep the breed alive with financial help from the governement.
