The Dutch Harness Horse is a breed that was specifically developed in the Netherlands to be used for pulling carts and carriages.
They are well-known for their calm temperament, soundness, and athleticism.
If you’re interested in learning more about these horses, or considering adding one to your farm, read on for everything you need to know.
Dutch Harness Horse Breed Info
Here are some of the key things you need to know about the Dutch Harness Horse:
| Height (size) | 15.0 – 16.2 hands high |
| Colors | Black, roan, chestnut, gray, bay, pinto, cream dilutions |
| Country of Origin | Netherlands |
| Common Uses | Harness, saddle seat, general riding, dressage |
Dutch Harness Horse Facts & Information (Breed Profile)
After the end of World War II, the Netherlands began developing a new breed of fine-driving warmblood horse known as the Dutch Harness Horse.
The native Groningen and Gelderland horses, which were formerly vital to the functioning of agricultural and transportation services, served as the foundation for the breed.
Breeders were able to build a sophisticated, high-stepping horse in only a few decades thanks to careful selection and a focused breeding program.
Their studbook is kept by the Royal Warmblood Horse Studbook of the Netherlands (KWPN).
If you’re interested in learning more about this fascinating breed, keep reading!
Alternative Names
“Tuigpaard”, “KWPN Harness Horse”
Temperament/Personality
Good-tempered, energetic, willing to work, docile, courageous
Physical Characteristics
The head is expressive, narrow, long and quite dry, and the carriage of the head is high.
The neck is set quite high, and the shoulders are long and powerful.
The back is long, the loin is open, and the croup is flat.
That enables the front and hind legs to work independently and with great action.
The tail is set high.
As a result of careful breeding and selection, the Dutch Harness Horse is very uniform in type and the gait qualities of the horses are inherent.
Colors
Black, roan, chestnut, gray, bay, pinto, cream dilutions
Height (size)
15.0 – 16.2 hands high
Stallions
n/a
Mares
n/a
Weight
n/a
Blood Type
Warm
Common Uses
Harness, saddle seat, general riding, dressage
Health
n/a
Popular Traits
High natural leg action
Feeding/Diet
n/a
Country of Origin
The Netherlands
Ancestors
Groningen, Gelderland