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 Württembergers | |
| Other names | Baden-Württemberger Württemberg |
|---|---|
| Country of origin | Germany |
| Breed standards | |
TheWürttemberger,Baden-Württemberger orWürttemberg is aWarmblood horsebreed originating inGermany. They are primarily ridinghorses, and are selectively bred fordressage andshow jumping.
Thebreed registry studbook was founded in 1895, and around 1896, theMarbach stud began concentrating on the original Württemberger type, which was a multi-purpose horse used for bothdraft and under-saddle work.[1] The original horses were produced by introducingArabian,Trakehner,Anglo-Norman,Friesian,Spanish,Barb, andSuffolk Punch blood to localwarmblood lines. An Anglo-Norman stallion named Faust was a significant early influence on the breed, and contributed to the original shape of the breed. This type lasted until the mid-1950s, when Marbach recognized, and began breeding a lighter, more athletic horse for modern competition.
The Trakehner stallion Julmond (1943–1965) was the foundation stud of new type, and helped to shape the modern Baden Württemberger. Additions ofHanoverian,Holsteiner,Oldenburg,Thoroughbred and additional Trakehner blood helped to further refine the breed into its current form.[1]
The best Württemberger horses have excellent temperaments, combining a sensible attitude with lively and free action. These traits may have originally been installed by the use of draft horse and Arabian blood. They are tough and economical to feed when compared toThoroughbreds.
The ideal Württemberger stands around 16.1 hands (65 inches, 165 cm) high, and is usuallybay,chestnut,brown, orblack incolor. They have an average-sized head with a straight profile, a good neck, and prominent withers. Their chest is deep, the shoulders sloping and well-muscled, the back is long and straight and the croup sloping. They have muscular legs with hard, well-formed hooves.[2]