Dutch Warmblood

What are Warmblood horses?

Warm bloods are a group of middle-weight horse types and breeds, primarily originating in Europe, registered with organizations that are characterized by open studbook policy, studbook selection, and the aim of breeding the perfect equestrian horse.

Many types of horses and ponies are classed as “warm bloods”, bred for work, driving, show jumping and dressage competitions.

The Dutch Warmblood

was developed specifically for sports, such as show jumping and dressage, which it excels at and is one of the most popular competition horses of today.

It is the product of two of Holland’s indigenous breeds, the Gelderlander and the Groningen.

Out crosses were then made with Thoroughbred blood.

The height ranges from 16hh (1.63m) upwards, with all solid colours, black, brown, bay, chestnut, or grey, and white markings are not uncommon.

The population also has a number of tobiano horses from the influence of the approved stallion Samber.

Bay and Brown is the most common coat colours.

The head is that of Thoroughbred type on a strong firm neck with a deep front, strong back, shoulders and limbs with short cannons and good feet.

The breed is extremely popular and also bred in Australia, New Zealand, America, Denmark, Sweden, Switzerland and Belgium.

Dutch law has made branding illegal, so today only the oldest Dutch Warm bloods still bear the lion-rampant brand on the left hip.Instead, the horses are microchipped.

For the past 15 years, the breeding direction has called for a horse suitable for the Grand Prix level.

Strict selection procedures ensure that bad-tempered stallions and mares do not go on to produce unmanageable horses, however, the Dutch Warm blood is significantly more sensitive than its Gelderlander and Groningen ancestors.

Performance test results allow breeders and buyers to identify horses with amateur-suitable temperaments.

All Dutch Warm bloods are selected to be uncomplicated to handle and ride.