Holstein Horses

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When you want a horse for the Olympics Games, Holstein horses could be your match and your stepping stone to success. In the 1976 Olympics, they dominated the Equestrian Olympics.
The Holstein, also called Holsteiner, was bred principally in the northernmost region of Germany, Scheleswig – Holstein. The Count of Holstein permitted the monks to graze their horses in the region. In the monasteries of Uetersen, the first horse breeding was organized. Since most monks are literate, they did most of the record-keeping.

The monks began to develop larger horses that were deemed for riding during war and for agriculture. Even after the reformation, landowners still persisted in breeding top-quality horses. So the breed’s high standards will be promoted, they passed laws and gave out incentives. Due to the Holsteiner’s power and distinction, they were exported to the res of Europe and France even bought thousands of these horses in the 1770s. Ten thousand horses were exported in 1797. In 1781, the breeders branded their horses through shield ands and crowns which are still practiced even today.

In the 1800s, the breed‘s population declined. It was caused by over-breeding, poor crops, and wars. In 1883, the remaining horses were improved through the help of a new association, called Verband. A hundred top-quality mares were then selected to breed with the remaining stallions. However, the horses declined once again as heavier coach horses were highly demanded. In addition to the changes in demand, the world wars also greatly affected the breed. In the 1960s, there were only 1,300 Holstein mares left. When the State disbanded their studbook, the Verband purchased the stallions instead. In 1980, the numbers increased to 3,100 mares. The Germany Verband abides by strict breeding rules and regulations. Only a few horses are accepted since they the horses have to pass meticulous screenings.

Standing between 16 and 17.1 hands high, Holstein horses are large and deep bodied. They have stronger joints, elegant arching necks and are well-muscled. Holstein horses are of two types. First is the Classic type which is heavier and larger boned whereas the modern type is lighter and more refined. They come in solid colors but bay and chestnut colors are more common. They are warm blood, calm, even-tempered but a bit lazy.

Holstein horses are excellent in show jumping, dressage, eventing, and combined driving.