In the Gelderland region of the Netherlands, a spectacular carriage horse breed developed, aptly named the Gelderlander horse. While bred to pull a carriage, they were also used as a heavy riding horse and an agricultural horse , farm work, plowing fields, logging, etc. Today, they are often called Gelders and have become a versatile horse breed.
Photo: Gelderlander Horse
History of the Gelderlander
In the late 1800s, breeders created this unique horse by crossing various Friesian, Arab, Anglo-Arab, Orlov, Cleveland Bay, Hackney, Oldenburg, and mixed-breed stallions with local mares .
In 1969, the original studbook registering the Gelderland horse, the Vereniging tot bevordering van de Landbouwtuigpaardenfokkerij in Nederland registry joined with the studbook of the Groninger horse, the Nederlands Warmbloed Paard studbook. This newly formed Koninklijk Warmbloed Paardenstamboek Nederland registry logged three breed styles: harness horse, riding horse, and the Gelderlander. Both the Gelderlander and Groninger horses are credited as forming the Dutch Warmblood we know today.
In 1960, the KWPN society tracked and bred Gelderlanders, using various horses to infuse the breed with different bloodlines. This transformed the Gelderlander into a horse bred for type instead of lineage.
In 2019, the Dutch government supported the formation of a new studbook following a legal battle to preserve the purity of these horses and revive line breeding.
Gelderland characteristics
Most Gelderland horses are chestnut, with some horses being gray, black, bay, and rarely skewbald. White stockings, socks, and facial markings are not uncommon among Gelderlanders. Often, these markings are extensive and add to their gorgeous looks.
Their body type is solid. They stand 15 to 16 HH and have a long, elegant face that often has a distinctive Roman nose. Their nostrils are more flared than other horses, and Gelderlands tend to have smaller ears which adds to their appeal.
A strong topline and muscular neck and shoulders melt into powerful, sloping hindquarters with a high-set tail. Gelders have sturdy legs atop solid, large hooves and a significant build, helping them remain sound and rideable.
The temperament of Gelder Horse
Gelder horses are intelligent, adaptable, and versatile. They are docile in temperament and have great strength and endurance. Gelderland's solid frame and excellent work ethic make them great partners for equestrians, whether in the show ring, as a pleasure horse, or as a working farm horse.
Because Gelders' minds are willing and highly trainable, and their bodies are athletic, you will see them excelling in many disciplines.
The versatility of the Gelderland horse
Gelderland horses are considered a heavy warmblood breed with many recreational uses, largely due to innovative and varied breeding.
Thanks to their Hackney influence, they are best known for their high-knee action at the trot. Their ground-covering and flashy trot is great for driving and riding.
Thoroughbred and Arabian influences give them quite a nice jump, although they are not known to be fast across hurdles.
Many modern Gelderlands are used as harness and combined driving horses, as well riding horses in the dressage court. You may even find Gelders that event, which showcases their athletic nature and universal appeal.
The Gelderlander's unique breeding, sound body, and smart mind is an excellent representation of a kind and talented horse breed.
Simplify the Stud books:
In 1969, the original studbook registering the Gelderland horse joined the studbook of the Groninger horse. This newly formed Koninklijk Warmbloed Paardenstamboek Nederland, or Royal Warmblood Studbook of the Netherlands, logged three breed styles: harness horses, riding horses, and the Gelderlander.
