Groningen Horse

Intro

The Gronigan Horse is a heavy Dutch warmblood that has close connections to the Gelderland breed (although it is larger and more robust) like the Gelderland, the Groningan has essentially been absorbed into the Dutch Warmblood registry.

Origins

This breed came from the northwestern province of Groningen and was created by crossing East Friesian and Oldenburg animals with native stock. The result was an attractive carriage horse with stylish action, great endurance and a charming character.

In 1970 the breed was left with only 1 purebred stallion, but breeding programs using mainly Oldenburg animals have proven successful in preserving beloved characteristics. Today the Groningan lives on as a basic type in the Dutch Warmblood studbook. According to the DAD-IS the Groningen is at risk and as of 2023 there were between 344 and 414 left.

Features

Average height 15.7 – 16.2 hands

Physique

Head is long with a straight profile
Neck is medium in length and muscular
Back is long
Hindquarters are powerful and muscular
Chest is wide and deep
Legs are short and strong with good joints
Hooves are well shaped