Holsteiner horses - elegance and performance from Schleswig-Holstein

Holsteiner horses are among the oldest and most renowned warmblood breeds in the world. With their elegant appearance, impressive performance and balanced character, they inspire riders and breeders alike. Whether in show jumping, dressage or all-round sport - the Holsteiner is a true all-rounder. Find out more about the history, characteristics and possible uses of this fascinating breed.

Profile: Holsteiner horse

• Breed: Holsteiner Warmblood
• Origin: Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
• Areas of use: Show jumping, dressage, eventing, leisure
• Size: 165-175 cm
• Weight: 500-700 kg
• Life expectancy: 20-30 years
• Character: Intelligent, willing to perform, balanced
• Well-known stallions: Calido, Capitol I, Casall
• Special features: Excellent jumping qualities, elegant gait
• Colors: Predominantly brown, chestnut, black; rarely also blue horses
• Price: Depends on age, training and pedigree - prices usually start from €10,000 and can reach six figures for top horses.

History and origin of Holstein horses

Holstein horses have their origins in Schleswig-Holstein, a region in northern Germany that is known for its long tradition of horse breeding. Horses were bred in this region as early as the 13th century, with the first Holsteins being valued primarily as robust workhorses and for use in the military.

Over the centuries, Holsteins have developed into elegant and versatile warmblood horses through targeted breeding. warmblood horses. The breed became particularly important in the 16th and 17th centuries, when it was used for prestigious purposes such as pulling carriages. Their imposing appearance and strong movements made them ideal for the nobility and high society.

With industrialization, the demands on horses changed and the breeding of the Holsteiner was specifically geared towards athleticism, endurance and agility. The crossbreeding of English thoroughbreds in particular, and later other high-performance sport horse breeds, gave rise to the Holsteiner as we know it today: athletic horses with outstanding abilities in show jumping, dressage and eventing.

Interior and exterior of Holsteiner horses

Holsteiner horses not only impress with their elegant appearance, but also with their outstanding character.

Interior: Character and behavior

Holsteins are characterized by their intelligent, balanced and willingness to perform. These characteristics make them not only popular competition horses, but also reliable partners for leisure riding.

• Willingness to perform: Holsteins show an impressive work ethic and are always motivated to give their best - whether in training or at competitions.
• Intelligence: Their quick perception makes training easier and makes them versatile horses that are suitable for many disciplines.
• Even-tempered: Despite their athleticism, Holsteins always remain calm and focused, which makes them particularly pleasant to handle.
• Willingness to cooperate: Close cooperation with the rider is one of the greatest strengths of this horse breed.

Exterior: Appearance

The external appearance of a Holsteiner is elegant, athletic and harmonious. These characteristics reflect its suitability as a top horse in sport.

• Build: The Holsteiner has a strong, yet elegant build. His compact back, well-muscled croup and long, slightly arched neckline give him a harmonious overall appearance.
• Head: The head is usually expressive with large, intelligent eyes and a straight profile.
• Legs: Strong and correctly positioned legs with hard, healthy hooves provide an excellent basis for his athletic performance.
• Shoulder: A long, sloping shoulder ensures optimum freedom of movement, especially when galloping and jumping.
• Withers: Highly pronounced and clearly shaped, they support mobility and the ability to perform powerful jumps.
• Colors: The most common colors are bay, chestnut and black, with blue occasionally appearing.

Purposes and areas of use of Holsteiner horses

Holsteiner horses are true all-rounders and are valued for their versatility and performance in numerous equestrian disciplines. Here are the most important areas of use for this warmblood breed in detail.

Show Jumping

The Holsteiner is known worldwide as a top horse in show jumping show jumping. With their impressive jumping power, agility and courage, Holsteins regularly dominate international tournaments and championships.

• Jumping power: Thanks to their powerful hindquarters and optimum body balance, Holsteins can master even the most demanding courses.
• Technique: Her skillful style over the jump makes her particularly successful in show jumping.
• Successes: Many successful show jumpers, such as the famous stallion Calido, come from Holsteiner breeding.

Dressage

Also in the dressage Holsteins shine with elegance and expression. Their supple movements and great rideability make them reliable partners for demanding lessons.

• Gaits: Holsteins are characterized by expressive and expansive movements.
• Easy to ride: Thanks to their intelligence and willingness to learn, they are also well suited for ambitious amateurs.

Versatility

Thanks to their combination of endurance, skill and willingness to perform, Holsteins are ideal horses for eventing. eventing. They master the challenges in the dressage arena, on the cross-country course and in the show jumping arena in equal measure.

• Endurance: Their strong constitution enables long and demanding cross-country rides.
• Strong nerves: Holsteins remain focused and reliable even under stressful conditions.

Famous Holsteiner horses

Over the years, Holstein horses have produced numerous stars of international equestrian sport. Their exceptional abilities in show jumping, dressage and eventing make them legends in their disciplines. Here are some of the most famous representatives of the breed:

Calido

The Holstein stallion Calido is a living legend in show jumping horse breeding. With his excellent technique and jumping power, he has set standards in both sport and breeding.

• Successes: Numerous of his offspring have made it into top international sport and won prizes at the highest level.
• Influence: Calido is considered one of the most important sires of modern show jumpers.

➡️ Video tip: In this video from the series "Breeding Legends" is all about the Holstein stallion Calido Iwho is considered the centerpiece of the Maas J. Hell stallion station. The video highlights the impressive career of this exceptional sire, whose offspring have caused a sensation in show jumping worldwide. In addition to insights into his sporting successes, his importance for breeding is also highlighted. Interviews with experts and breeders show why Calido I is one of the most influential stallions of his time.

Casall ASK

Casall is one of the most successful Holstein show jumping stallions of modern times. Under his rider Rolf-Göran Bengtsson, he has achieved numerous top placings in international show jumping competitions.

• Career highlights: Victories at several Grand Prix tournaments and championships.
• Breeding value: Casall has also made a name for himself in breeding by producing many talented sport horses.

➡️ Video tip: In this video from the series "Breeding Legends" the legendary Holstein stallion Casall is presented. The film highlights his extraordinary career from talented young horse to internationally celebrated top athlete under Rolf-Göran Bengtsson. It also shows Casall's important role as a sire, whose offspring are successful in sport and breeding worldwide. Interviews with breeders, riders and experts round off the portrait of this extraordinary stallion.

Capitol I

As one of the most influential Holstein stallions Capitol I has had a lasting influence on breeding. He is the sire of numerous successful show jumpers who have set international standards.

• Offspring: Capitol I is the sire of famous horses such as Cassini I, who in turn have continued an impressive breeding line.

Landgrave I

Landgraf I is a name that is inextricably linked with Holsteiner breeding . This stallion is a legend and is one of the best jumper sires in the world.

• Influence: His offspring have dominated the show jumping scene for decades.
• Popularity: Due to his sire qualities, he is still an icon of Holsteiner breeding today.

Breeding of Holsteiner horses

Holsteiner horse breeding is known worldwide for its quality and strict standards. The focus is on the combination of willingness to perform, health and a balanced character.

Breeding standards

• Selection: Only the best mares and stallions with outstanding qualities and no health defects are admitted for breeding.
• Licensing: The annual Holsteiner licensing auction is a highlight at which stallions are tested for conformation, interior and performance.
• Lines: The Holsteiner breeding lines are known for their specialization in show jumping, dressage and eventing.

➡️ Video tip: The Holsteiner young stallion licensing 2024

The Holsteiner Verband

The Verband der Züchter des Holsteiner Pferdes e. V. plays a central role in breeding. It sets strict guidelines and promotes the worldwide spread of the breed.

• Studbook: The Verband keeps a studbook in which all Holsteins with proven pedigree are registered.
• Stallions: Holstein stallions such as Calido or Casall are regarded as the benchmark in modern horse breeding.

➡️ Video tip: The presentation of the Holsteiner Verband stallions on January 26, 2025

Care and keeping of Holsteiner horses

The right care and husbandry is crucial to ensure the health, well-being and performance of Holsteiner horses. Due to their athletic potential and their love of movement, they need to be kept in a way that is specifically tailored to their needs.

Posture

• Sufficient exercise: Holsteins are active horses that need daily exercise. Regular grazing or spacious paddocks allow them to move freely and strengthen their muscles and joints.
• Grazing: Holsteins benefit from daily access to pasture. Fresh air and social contact promote their well-being and strengthen their immune system.
• Stabling: The stable should be spacious, clean and well ventilated. A stall of at least 12 square meters is recommended for a Holsteiner so that the horse has enough space.
• Group housing: Social contact with conspecifics is essential, as horses are herd animals. Holsteins feel particularly comfortable when kept in groups, provided there is enough space.

Feeding

• Basic feedHay of the best quality forms the basis of the feed. At least 1.5% of the horse's body weight should be fed as hay per day.
• Concentrated feedConcentrated feed is necessary for active Holsteins. Oats, pellets or compound feed can be fed depending on the load.
• Supplementary feedMinerals and vitamins are important to support performance and health.
• Drinking water: Fresh, clean water must always be available, especially after training.

Care

• Coat care: Daily grooming keeps the coat clean, stimulates blood circulation and creates a close bond between horse and rider.
• Hoof care: Regular hoof checks and trimming by a farrier every six to eight weeks are essential.
• Dental care: Holsteins need a dental check once a year to detect possible problems at an early stage.
• Training: A balanced training plan that includes exercise, muscle building and breaks ensures the healthy development of the horse.

Hereditary diseases in Holstein horses

As with every horse breed , certain hereditary diseases can also occur in Holsteins. The Holsteiner Verband strives to minimize these diseases through careful breeding and strict selection.

Osteochondrosis (OC)

Osteochondrosis is a joint disease that occurs in young horses. It is caused by growth disorders in the cartilage tissue, which can lead to joint problems and lameness.

• Cause: Genetic predisposition, combined with rapid growth and inadequate nutrition.
• Symptoms: swelling, restricted movement, lameness.
• Treatment: Surgical removal of cartilage fragments or targeted treatment by a veterinarian.
• Prevention: Regular veterinary checks and a balanced diet during growth.

Ataxia

Ataxia is a neurological disorder that impairs coordination of movement.

• Cause: Genetic factors or damage to the nervous system.
• Symptoms: unsteady gait, stumbling, difficulty maintaining balance.
• Treatment: Ataxia is generally not curable, but management measures can improve well-being.
• Precaution: Careful selection of breeding animals can minimize the risk.

➡️ Reading tipWould you like to learn more about ataxia? In our article "Ataxia horse" you will find all the information you need on causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

Inflammation of the hoof rollers

Inflammation of the hoof roll is a painful disease of the hoof roll that is favored by genetic predisposition and stress.

• Cause: Anatomical conditions, overloading or incorrect hoof care.
• Symptoms: lameness, difficulty walking.
• Treatment: Orthopaedic fittings and adapted exercise can help to alleviate the symptoms.
• Prevention: Regular hoof care and avoidance of overloading.

➡️ Reading tip: Learn more about the causes, signs, diagnosis and treatment options for lameness in horses. lameness in horses.

FAQs

Where do Holsteiner horses come from?

Holstein horses originate from Schleswig-Holstein, a region in the north of Germany. They are one of the oldest warmblood breeds and have a long breeding tradition there.

How big do Holsteiner horses grow?

Holsteins reach a height of around 165 to 175 cm. Their strong but elegant build makes them ideal for riding.

How heavy are Holsteiner horses?

The weight of a Holsteiner is usually between 500 and 700 kg, depending on size, sex and level of training.

How old do Holsteiner horses get?

Life expectancy is 20 to 30 years, whereby good husbandry, care and nutrition are crucial for a long and healthy life.

Are Holsteiner horses good for dressage?

Yes, Holsteins are ideal for dressage. They are characterized by their supple movements, their expressive gait and their willingness to learn.

How expensive are Holsteiner horses?

The price of a Holsteiner depends on age, training and pedigree.

• Foal: From around €10,000.
• Sport horses: Highly qualified horses can achieve prices in the six-figure range.

What are Holsteiner horses used for?

Holsteiner horses are versatile:

• Show jumping: Outstanding thanks to her jumping power and technique.
• Dressage: Elegant and adaptable.
• Versatility: Powerful and durable.
• Leisure: Due to their balanced character, they are also ideal partners for leisure riders.

What colors do Holsteiner horses have?

The most common coat colors are brown, chestnut and black. Blue horses are also found less frequently.

Which famous Holsteiner horses are there?

Famous Holsteins are:

• Calido: A top stallion in show jumper breeding.
• Casall: Successful in top international sport.
• Capitol I and Landgraf I: Important sires in breeding.