Groningen Horse

Groningen’s horse is well-accepted for their stable temperament. Groninger and Groningse paard are the alternative names of the Groningen horse. The Groningen horse breed is developed mainly for light draft and agricultural work. This horse looks like the Gelderlander horse breed but it is heavier and superior. The Groningen Horse breed is fashioned by human hands. Initially, the prototype was based on the Oldenberger and the Friesian, a large horse that was well-liked at the time and the Groningen was a victory.

History of Groningen Horse

The Groningen Horse saw its origin in the Netherlands. This horse was developed in the late part of the 19th century from Oldenburg horses bred to the local draft breeds. This horse breed was nearly lost in the 7th decade of the past century. The reason was that a majority of animals were wrapped up in the Dutch Warmblood breed.

Only a single purebred stallion remained at that time. To reduce inbreeding, Oldenburg blood has been used during the reinstallation of the breed. The strict breeding policies have led to the growth of the numbers of this horse breed. At present, it is estimated that there are three to four hundred registered Groningers and twenty-five registered stallions.

Physique of Groningen Horse

The Groningen Horse has a handsome head with a straight face and intelligent eyes. The ears are quite long. Its body is powerful and deep with a broad chest, strong shoulders, and hindquarters. The tail is set on high and carried well. Legs are strong, short, and clean. This is an attractive light draft/heavy saddle breed. They are strapping and have an incredible pull. The hooves are durable and tough.

Height of Groningen Horse

Generally, Groningen’s horse is 15.3-16.1 hands high but it can be taller.

Body Color of Groningen Horse

Groningen horse usually has a black, bay, or dark brown color, often with white markings. About 90% of them are black or have some shade of bay. A small percentage of these horses are chestnut or gray.

The temperament of Groningen Horse

Groningen’s horse is gentle, obedient, willing, and enduring.

Health Issues of Groningen Horse

Inbreeding is the greatest concern for the Groningen horse. Stallions must undergo a veterinary examination before they are allowed to breed just as in other warmblood registries. As an aftermath, the breed is sound, long-lived, and parsimonious.

Uses of Groningen Horse

The calm nature and low-maintenance constitutions of the Groningen horse make it the perfect horse for leisure. They mature quickly and are sound, long-lived, and easy to keep. They do not ask for everyday care. Many Groningen horses along with approved stallions compete in dressage at the Dutch national Z-level. Some of them compete in shows jumping above four feet. However, this is not very frequent. They have found their current place as combined driving horses. Above all, this is a family horse.

The kind nature of the Groningen horse makes it an excellent animal for all-around farm work and riding. The breed is developed from the heavier Friesian crossed with East Friesian and Oldenburg horses. Unluckily it has now become rare. Groningen is heavier than warm-blood horses. It has a stylish action, suitable enough for a good carriage horse. It has a sound constitution and can work well on a meager diet.

See more: Friesian Horse