Hanoverian Horses

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Have you dreamt of becoming an Olympic gold medalist? Then, you better purchase a Hanoverian horse. They are seen in the Olympic Games and other English riding styles. Their gold medals are proofs of how skillful they are in sports.

Being one of the most prominent and successful breeds, the Hanoverians stemmed from northern Germany in the state of Lower Saxony, the former kingdom of Hannover. For 400 years, a thriving horse-breeding industry existed here. In 1735, specifically at Celle, the State Stud was established by George II, the King of England and Elector of Hanover. Stallions were bought for agriculture, harness and breeding purposes. He improved the local mares by adding it up with Holsteiner, Thoroughbred and Cleveland Bay, Neapolitan, Andalusian, Prussian, and Mecklenburg stock. Then, the Hanoverian became a high-quality coach horse. In 1844, a law regulated the breeding of stallions, wherein those who have not passed by the commission can not be used for breeding. In their aim to produce a coach and military horse, breeders have created a society in 1867 and they published the first Stud Book in the next year.

Of everything that has been happening, the Hanoverians became so popular in Europe. However, the breed declined following the First World War. The people during this time saw the increasing need for farm work, so the Hanoverian breed was declining. But at the end of war, Sport horses, general riding horses were highly demanded again and so the breeding was again adapted. To improve the breed once again, breeders utilized the Thoroughbreds and the Anglo-Arabian or Trakehner stallion were also used occasionally. The Hanoverian’s breeding success can be attributed to a thorough selection of breeding stock, large breed population and the breeders’ willingness to adjust depending on the demands.

When you look at them, you’ll be easily impressed because they are pleasing to the eye, powerful and vigorous. With their powerful body, athletic movements and strong limbs, they are always willing to learn and are highly trainable. Oftentimes, they come in chestnut, bay, brown, black, and gray colors. They can be 15.2 -17.2 hands high but most of them are 16-16.2 hands.

Today, they are considered to be highly skilled in sports and are popular for dressage, show jumping, show hunters, and eventing.