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| Photo supplied by Shambala Holsteiner Stud - QLD © |
Holsteiner horses originated in Germany several centuries
ago and are probably the oldest German warmblood horse. Holsteiner horses have
German, Neapolitan, Spanish, and oriental bloodlines and were very popular in
the 17th century in Italy, France, and Denmark. During the 19th century Holsteiner
horses were crossed with Yorkshire Coach Horses and Cleveland Bay stallions to
produce a tough, active, handsome carriage horse with a willing nature and
distinctive high knee action. The also become popular as an army mount.
In 1867 the Prussians founded the Traventhall Stud in
Schleswig-Holstein where the breeding of modern day Holsteiner horses began.
Today the main breeding center is located in Elmshorn, Germany. After World War
II some Thoroughbred blood was introduced to produce a lighter, more refined
horse with a better shoulder. In comparison to other warmbloods Holsteiners are
only bred in relatively small numbers with little variations.
About Holsteiner Horses
