Breed Registries | History & Origin | Uses | Conformation

Holsteiner History & Origin

The Holstein is another German Warmblood breed that has changed quite considerably throughout its history. The breed takes its name from the Schleswig-Holstein area where it originated, and is generally believed to have developed through the 13th century. There is documentary evidence of Holstein type horses existing in 1285, when permission was given to a monastery at Uetersen to graze horses on private land around the cloisters.

It is likely that they are descended from a mix of German, Spanish, and oriental blood, and that during the Middle Ages, the Holstein was a heavy but elegant warhorse, as well as being used for agricultural purposes. They were frequently used both by the cavalry and as a gun horse for pulling the heavy artillery.

During the 17th century they became more popular as carriage horses, although they were still quite coarse in appearance, with a heavy frame and a short stride. One famous Holstein of the 17th century was the gray stallion Mignon, who became the founder of the cream horses, which were prized by Electors of Hanover, and were used at the British Royal Mews until 1920. During the 19th century, there was an infusion of Thoroughbred blood to improve the Holstein's conformation and speed, and also of Yorkshire Coach Horse blood, which is credited with supplying the Holstein's excellent temperament and wide action.

After the Second World War, there were again infusions of Thoroughbred blood, and the Holstein became a more refined, lighter type, eminently suitable for competitive riding.

Holsteiner Uses

They have a superb temperament, which makes them very easy to get along with. They are also highly versatile, being talented at both dressage and jumping, which makes them a popular competition horse worldwide. They are exceptionally athletic, and number among the top show jumping horses in the world.

Holsteiner Conformation

In appearance, they have a nicely proportioned head of Thoroughbred type that is well set to a muscular, elegant neck. They should be broad and deep through the chest, with sloping shoulders allowing freedom of movement, a straight, longish back with muscular, sloping quarters, and short, strong legs. They are often long in the cannon bone with clearly defined tendons and well-shaped hooves. They can be any solid color, although they are often bay, and stand from between 16 hh to 17 hh.

References:
-The Encyclopedia of Horses & Ponies. Tamsin Pickeral