Gelderland Horse

Gelderland is like Groningen, the breed that is the basis of the Dutch Warmblood. These three races make up the foundation of all Dutch farms, where conditions for horse breeding is not the best for a small country. The purpose of the Gelderland breed was to get a bit heavier driving speed, which was still smooth and with good action that could also work in agriculture and be used as riding horses if needed.

Breeding started in early 1800 in the region of Gelderland in the Netherlands. The starting point was the usual domestic farm mares, and if the experiment succeeded, any riding type was developed.

Unlike many breeders throughout the world the farmers behind the horses ensured they would all have a good temper. We processed on the other hand, breeds with an amazing variety of breeds. These included: the Cleveland Bay; Arabian horse; Anglo Arab; Oldenburg; Nonius; Furioso and Orlov Trotters.

Although semi horses from England, Poland and Hungary were used. After several years of relatively selective breeding they mixed it up with yet more blood from Frieserhastar and Oldenburg. In 1900 they improved Gelderland movements using a Hackneyhingst.

Attributes

Gelderland is big, grand chariot horse with a fairly noble appearance. The horses are always chestnut. Often they have large white markings, including blisters or white legs. Gelderland have had great international success in competition use. Some are also used as large weight-bearing riding horses and even if they do it not so well, there are those who jump a bit.