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By Jeffery Garfield

Last updated: 25th June 2020

Wurttemberg Horse

By

Jeffery Garfield
Last updated: 25th June 2020

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.

One response to “Wurttemberg Horse”

  1. Judy Johnsen says:

    Are these horses for sale in America?

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