4 Breeds Often Trained as German Dressage Horses

The word "dressage" means "training" in German, and indeed, the Germans are in many ways the pioneers of this great horse sport. While the popularity of dressage has risen around the globe, Germany is still a great place to turn when you're in the market for a finished dressage horse or a noteworthy prospect. However, there are many different breeds that the Germans train for this sport. Here is a look at a few of the most popular breeds to consider if you're shopping.

1. Hanoverians

The Hanoverian is a German horse breed that originated, as the name suggests, in Hannover. The breed can be traced back to the 1700s, although its breed registry, the Hanoverian Studbook, was not established until 1888. Hanoverians are known for and bred for their stamina and sturdiness. They have robust ribcages and strong hindquarters, making them good prospects for dressage — a sport that requires a horse to carry itself on its hindquarters. Hanoverians are also known for their smooth, elastic gaits. Not only do they look beautiful when ridden under saddle, but they feel comfortable, which is important in a sport like dressage that can be very demanding on the rider when gaits are not smooth.

2. Oldenburgs

Oldenburg horses, also known as Oldenburger horses, are a breed that originated in the region of Oldenburg in the mid-1700s. Early on, these horses were bred as carriage horses, so they tended to be small and compact. Modern Oldenburgs are a bit larger than these early horses; most are around 16 hands. However, they retain the short backs of their ancestors. Short backs are strong backs, and they make for an easy-to-maneuver horse that is well suited for the complex movements of upper-level dressage. Oldenburg horses also tend to have amazing suspension in their gaits. Their open walk and active, elastic trot is sought after by many dressage trainers. 

3. Holsteiners

The Holsteiner is one of the oldest German warmblood breeds, dating back to the 1200s. Holsteiners are built stoutly, and since stallions must be 16 hands in order to be bred, most Holsteins are quite sizable. They are therefore common mounts for larger dressage riders. Holsteiners are known for their high-set necks, which give them a very elegant look in the dressage ring. They tend to be clever and agile, which is why many Holsteiner dressage horses are also cross-trained as jumpers. They are commonly seen in the sport of eventing, which encompasses both jumping and dressage.

4. Trakheners

The Trakneher is a lighter German breed that can sometimes resemble a thoroughbred. They are popular mounts for younger and smaller dressage riders as they're often as small as 15.2 hands. Trakheners are also often black, which is rare for a lot of other horse breeds. Like the other breeds on this list, they are well suited for dressage because of their powerful hind ends, strong backs, and trainable demeanor. They're also a bit more energetic than the other German breeds, so they really benefit from competent training early on. A lower-level rider is better off buying a well trained Trakhener than a green one if this is the breed they are interested in. Trakheners also tend to be good jumpers, so they are easily cross-trained for eventing or for performance in the stadium jumping ring.

If you are shopping specifically for German dressage horses, the breeds above are the ones to focus on. Whether you're looking for a lighter Trakhener or a Hanoverian with good, solid bone, you will be on the right track towards finding the perfect mount. Contact horse breeders to learn more.