The end of the week is a great time to visit another exotic location and learn about the majestic horse breeds it’s given rise to. Looking at each breed in the context of their origins is a fascinating ride, & today a peek at the breeds from The Netherlands.
Athletic Champ
The Netherlands are in the north so many of their breeds tend toward the more robust side. Originally they bred two similar types of athletic horse, the Gelderland (a coach horse with natural jumping ability) & the Groningen a charming riding horse with stylish action. More recently the Dutch Warmblood was developed and the two breeds were absorbed into a warmblood registry.
Dutch Rockstar
The Friesian is perhaps the most widely recognized Dutch breeds, their distinctive coal black coat and upright confirmation make them unmistakable. These animals have been around for centuries and were used as calvary mounts as far back as 150 AD. Their bloodlines thought to be the foundation for the ‘Old English Black’ horse and later the Shire and Fell Pony.
Horse Breeds of The Netherlands
Arabo-Friesian
Dutch Draft
Dutch Harness Horse
Dutch Miniature Horse
Dutch Warmblood
Friesian
Gelderland
Groningen
Netherlands Appaloosa Pony
Zeeland
Horses of the World
There is a whole worlds worth of countries to visit, so be sure to keep yourself updated. Please let me know in the comments below if I’m missing any horses of the The Netherlands & check back next week for the breeds of Norway.