The Black Forest Horse is a breed of horses characterized by dense mane that hangs down covering both sides of their neck. These are draft horses with immense strength, patience, and a gentle temperament. Though most breeds falling under draft horses are primarily used for driving, these horses can well be used as pleasure draft, like riding, packing, etc. They are suitable for novice or first-time owners.
Other Names | Schwarzwälder Füchs, Schwarzwälder Kaltblut, Wälder Horse, Saint Märgener |
Temperamental Characteristics | Moderate, docile, loyal, intelligent, easy to train |
Physical Descriptions | Light to medium framed, well-muscled body; light-colored, long mane and tail (both blonde or flaxen); short but elegant head with defined, expressive and kind eyes; muscular neck; strong, sloping shoulder; broad and muscular hind quarters; large and strong joints; hardy hooves |
Colors | Bay, chestnut, gray |
Common Uses | General riding, driving, sports, farming |
Lifespan/Expectancy | Long-lived |
Weight | 1250-1400 pounds |
Height (size) | Stallions – up to 16 hands; Mares – 14.3 to 15½ hands |
Health Problems | Generally healthy, no known breed-specific diseases |
Gaited | Yes |
Movements | Even walk; energetic trot with long strides |
Blood Type | Cold-blooded |
Popular Traits | Strong and hardy, multi-talented, easily maintainable |
Feeding/Diet | General horse diet consisting of hay, grass, grains, vegetables, etc. |
Country of Origin | Germany |
Year/Time of Development | 1896 |
Breed Information | Pedigree |
The breed of Black Forest horses dates back as far as 600 years. As the name suggests, the Black Forest Horse evolved in the Black Forest in south-west Germany’s Baden-Württemberg region that were mainly used for working purposes.
Originally selected to work in the forestry regions and the farmlands, these sturdy horses had the durability to suit themselves to even thrive in the challenging highland with its long winters. All these characteristics, adding up to their modest nature, made them an all-round workhorse indispensable to generations of pre-industrial farmers.
In 1896, with the establishment of the first studbook, a state-regulated breeding stock, along with breeding regulation and qualifications, were created. The breeding goals that were sought after by both the black forest breeders and the state were achieved by the advent of the 21st century. This resulted in the even-minded, versatile, family horse of the present day that are equally good at farming, for draft horse showing, logging, recreation, and other activities.
However, in 1981, the count of these horses came down to a remarkably less number. With the advancement of machineries and modes of travelling, the breeders and the owners of the black forest began to diversify the uses of this horse.
In the modern times, there are only 46 State Approved Stallions, 16 of which are in Marbach/Baden-Wurttemberg’s stud farm owned by the state, while the rest are scattered in different private breeding facilities. In Germany, there are approximately 700 registered mares at present.