Silesian horses are a rare breed that is known for its athleticism and versatility.
They originated in the Silesia region of Poland, and were used by miners and farmers in the area.
This article will tell you everything you need to know about these fascinating animals.
Silesian Horse Breed Info
Here are some of the key things you need to know about the Silesian horse:
| Height (size) | Old type: 15.5 – 16.7 hands highNew type: 15.9 – 16.7 hands high |
| Colors | Bay, black, chestnut, gray |
| Country of Origin | Poland |
| Common Uses | Riding, driving, draft work |
Silesian Horse Facts & Information (Breed Profile)
Breeding of the Silesian horse started at the beginning of the 19th century in the historic region of Silesia, which today lies mostly within Polish borders.
The goal was to create a sturdy horse for farm work and agriculture, and so Oldenburg and East Fresian stallions were bred to local Silesian mares.
The first stud book was formed in 1901, and the current one was issued in 1961.
The resulting horse was maybe the biggest Warmblood in Europe at the time, which was suitable for pulling carts and for light farming.
Unlike many other breeds, the Slesian was not significantly affected by World War 2, and their breeding continued after the war.
They are very versatile and can be employed in a variety of roles, and even though their numbers are low there is a substantial herd of pure animals.
The Silesian is the heaviest of the Polish Warmblood breeds, and it has primarily been influenced by the Thoroughbred and Oldenburg, and to a lesser extent by the East Friesian.
After World War II, when foreign stallions were used to prevent the breed from becoming extinct, the Oldenburg influence became especially prominent.
In the 1950s the focus of the breeders shifted towards creating a lighter horse.
In 2000, the breed was divided into two types: the old type that can be used for a variety of purposes, such as competitive driving, and the new type consisting of light saddle horses used mostly for racing.
Today they are mostly bred at Klikowa stud, which opened in 1955.
If you’re interested in learning more about this fascinating breed, keep reading!
Alternative Names
“Slaski Horse”
Temperament/Personality
Even tempered, easy to train, calm, reliable
Physical Characteristics
The head is straight or with a Roman nose, and the neck is strong.
Pronounced withers merge into a powerful back, and the croup is broad and muscular.
The cannon bones are short and sturdy, and the hooves are big and well-shaped.
Overall they are graceful and muscular horses.
Two types are recognised – an old and a new.
The new or racing type is taller and lighter.
Colors
Bay, black, chestnut, gray
Height (size)
Old type: 15.5 – 16.7 hands high
New type: 15.9 – 16.7 hands high
Stallions
Old type: 15.7 – 16.7 hh
New type: 16.1 – 16.7 hh
Mares
Old type: 15.5 – 16.5 hh
New type: 15.9 – 16.5 hh
Weight
1,320 – 1,430 lbs (600 – 650 kg)
Blood Type
Warm
Common Uses
Riding, driving, draft work
Health
n/a
Popular Traits
Very versatile
Feeding/Diet
n/a
Country of Origin
Poland
Ancestors
Local Silesian mares, Oldenburg, East Friesian, Thoroughbred