Horse Breed: South German Coldblood

Horse Cultures of the World

Name of breed: South German Coldblood (German: Süddeutsches Kaltblut)

Country of origin: Bavaria, Germany

Breed origin: The South German Coldblood is a descendant of Austrian Noriker horses that were introduced to Bavaria, in southern Germany, in the 1800s. The Noriker is a fine draught horse, but breeders in Upper Bavaria wanted to create a different, more agile breed to call their own. They added Oldenburg, Holsteiner, Clydesdale, Cleveland Bay, Thoroughbred and Norman bloodlines to create an entirely new draught breed. The breed has remained more or less pure since 1880, with the exception of some Clydesdale, Belgian and Suffolk Punch influences in the 20th century. A stud book was established in 1906, and breeding came under state control in 1920. South German Coldbloods have been used for all manner of farmwork, as well as for forestry and carrying packs and artilleries in mountainous regions. Of the four main German draught breeds, the South German Coldblood is the only breed not listed as endangered.

Distinguishing features: South German Coldbloods are agile, hardy, incredibly strong, versatile, willing and good-natured. They have mid-sized heads with expressive eyes, strong, mid-sized necks, broad, long backs, muscular legs with good joints and hard hooves. They come in all colours, including occasional leopard spotting, although flaxen chestnut and bay are most common. They stand around 16-16.2 hands high.

Modern day South German Coldblood: The South German Coldblood is still used for agricultural work in some regions, but it is most commonly used under harness and as a show horse. It makes a noble and willing carriage horse for tourism and parades.

 

References: Horse Breeds Pictures, The Equinest, Wikipedia.

Image credits: feature image by Annabell Gsoedl/Shutterstock.com, preview image by Majonit/Shutterstock.com.