Wurttemberg Horse
The Wurttemberg or Wurttemberger is a breed of medium-sized, light horses that originated in the Baden Wurttemberg region in Germany. Known for their versatility, as well as alert and sensible nature, the Wurttembergs were used as riding, driving, and heavy coach horses.
Wurttemberg Horse Pictures
Quick Information
Other Names | Baden-Wurttemberger |
Temperament/Personality | Intelligent, friendly, docile, trainable |
Physical Characteristics | Average-sized head, straight profile, muscular necks, prominent withers; a long, strong, and straight back; a deep and broad chest; sloping quarters with a well-set tail; strong, muscular legs with well-formed, hard hooves |
Colors | Bay, brown, black, or chestnut |
Height (size) | Approximately 16.1 hands (165 cm, 65 inches) high at the withers |
Weight | About 1,100 lbs (499 kg) |
Common Uses | Excel at competitions such as show jumping and dressage; also used as light draft horses |
Health | A hardy breed with no known health conditions |
Gaited | Yes; free and lively movements |
Feeding/Diet | Good-quality, dust-free forage; low quantity of concentrates such as grains or cubes; fresh, clean water |
Blood Type | Warm |
Distinguishing Traits | Excellent temperament, strong, sturdy, well-proportioned body, economical to feed |
Country of Origin | Germany |
Ancestors | Arabian, Anglo-Norman, Barb, Suffolk Punch, Spanish, Friesian, Trakehner |
Breed Association/Registry | Principal and State Stud Marbach |
Video: Baden Wurttemberg Horse Competing at a Dressage Show
History and Development
Back in the 17th century, the Wurttemberg was first produced at Marbach stud, the oldest and one of the biggest state stud farms in Germany. A special breeding program was followed, concentrating on the development of versatile horse that could be used for driving and riding. The original Wurttembergers were quite different from the ones that are seen today.
These equines were bred by crossing local warmblood horses with Suffolk Punch, Spanish, Friesian, Barb, Trakehner, Arabian, and Anglo-Norman stallions. An Anglo-Norman horse named Faust had a significant influence on the Wurttemberger, and it is credited with establishing the original cob-like conformation of the breed. These equines gained official recognition in 1895, and in the same year, their registry was formed.
These cobby type horses were bred until the mid-1950s, and since then the Marbach stud farm has been producing a lighter, athletic type that is suitable for modern equine competitions. This change was influenced by the addition of Trakehner blood, most importantly from the foundation stallion Julmond (1943-1965). The infusion of Holsteiner, Thoroughbred, Hanoverian, Oldenburg, and more Trakehner blood further improved the breed.
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