Oldenburger Horses: Versatile Sport and Leisure Partners

Profile: Oldenburg horses

• Breed: Oldenburg
• Origin: Lower Saxony, Germany
• Type: Warmblood
• Size: 160-175 cm
• Weight: 500-700 kg
• Colors: Predominantly brown, black, chestnut, gray
• Character: Willing to perform, intelligent, balanced
• Use: Sport horse (dressage, show jumping, eventing), leisure horse
• Brand mark: "O" with a crown above it

History and origin

The history of Oldenburg horses goes back to the 17th century, when Count Anton Günther von Oldenburg began to refine robust working horses with noble stallions from Spain, Italy and the Orient. This laid the foundation for the development of Oldenburg horses into powerful, elegant carriage horses that were sought after by nobility and merchants throughout Europe. In 1820, the first breeding association was founded, which introduced licensing and established the famous brand - an "O" with a crown - which is still considered a mark of quality today.

Oldenburg breeding adapted to the changing demands of equestrian sport in the 20th century. Through targeted breeding with thoroughbred and French stallions, such as Furioso II and Inschallah, the breed developed from a traditional old Oldenburg into a modern, versatile sport horse. This breeding strategy has produced horses that are successful worldwide in dressage, show jumping and eventing.

Today, the breed is one of the best warmblood breeds in the world. 

Conformation of Oldenburg horses

The conformation of Oldenburg horses is characterized by elegance, power and harmony. They have an athletic build which makes them ideal for riding. Their most important characteristics are

• Build: Muscular and harmoniously proportioned, with athletic lines.
• Head: Expressive and noble, with large, friendly eyes.
• Neck: Long, curved and strong - perfect for the demands of dressage and show jumping.
• Shoulder: Oblique and well developed, which ensures free and dynamic movements.
• Back: Strong and elastic, with a good connection to the croup.
• Legs: Strong, correctly placed, with clear joints and solid hooves.

Interior of Oldenburg horses

The interior of Oldenburg horses is just as remarkable as their exterior. They are known for their excellent character and versatility. Their outstanding characteristics include

• Willingness to perform: Oldenburg horses are ambitious and always give their best, especially in disciplines such as dressage, show jumping and eventing.
• Calmness: Despite their size and strength, they are strong-nerved, balanced and easy to ride.
• Intelligence: Their willingness to learn and their understanding of their rider's requirements make them ideal partners in equestrian sport.
• People-oriented: Oldenburgs quickly develop a bond with their rider and are known for their gentle character.

Intended uses and areas of application

Oldenburg horses are known for their versatility and exceptional performance. Here are the most important areas of use:

Oldenburg horses in dressage

Oldenburgs shine in the dressage with their elegant, lively movements and their pronounced sense of rhythm. They are easy to train and are characterized by their ability to master even the most demanding lessons. This is why they are regularly among the world leaders in international dressage competitions.

Oldenburg horses in show jumping

In the show jumping Oldenburgs impress with their enormous jumping power, precision and courage. Their athletic bodies and strong hindquarters enable them to successfully master even difficult courses. They are considered reliable partners for ambitious show jumpers.

Oldenburg horses in eventing

Thanks to their stamina, strength and adaptability, Oldenburgs are also ideal for versatility. They show strong performances on the cross-country course as well as in dressage and jumping. Their strong nerves and versatility make them ideal all-rounders.

Oldenburg horses as leisure horses

In addition to their success in equestrian sport, Oldenburgs are also popular as leisure horses. Their even-tempered nature, their people-oriented nature and their calmness make them excellent companions for riders looking for a reliable and versatile horse.

Care and keeping of Oldenburg horses

Oldenburg horses are not only powerful, but also relatively uncomplicated to keep if their basic needs are met. However, due to their size and their urge to move, some aspects are particularly important:

Housing requirements

The keeping of Oldenburg horses should do justice to their temperament and size. Here are the most important points:

• Generous space: Due to their imposing size (stick size 160-175 cm), Oldenburgs require spacious stalls with at least 12-15 m² of space. Alternatively, an open stable offers a natural and flexible environment.
• Daily exercise: These horses are very active and benefit from daily exercise in the pasture or a paddock. Regular exercise promotes their physical and mental health.
• Social contact: Oldenburgs are sociable animals that feel particularly comfortable in the company of other horses. Keeping them in groups or at least in direct contact with conspecifics is ideal to avoid boredom and stress.
• Stable climate: A well-ventilated, dry stable with sufficient light contributes significantly to the health of the horses.

Training

The training of an Oldenburg should be varied both physically and mentally. These intelligent and performance-oriented horses benefit from a well-thought-out training plan that promotes their strengths and avoids excessive demands.

• Varied training: Oldenburg horses are versatile and should be encouraged accordingly. A mixture of dressage, jumping and cross-country riding not only keeps them physically fit, but also ensures mental balance.
• Basic training: Solid basic training is essential if the horse is to master the demands of sport and leisure riding with confidence. Particular emphasis is placed on tact, suppleness and trust.
• Condition and strength: Regular work on the lunge or in the field improves stamina and strengthens the muscles. Well-developed hindquarters are particularly important in jumping or eventing training.
• Breaks and regeneration: Despite their willingness to perform , Oldenburgers also need recovery periods. Excessively frequent or monotonous training can lead to overload or mental exhaustion.
• Competition preparation: For sporting events, training should be targeted and tailored to the specific discipline. Dressage horses benefit from gymnastic exercises, while show jumpers focus on course training. Here you can find out more about show preparation. 

Typical diseases in Oldenburgers

Inflammation of the hoof rollers

Inflammation of the hoof rollers is one of the most common causes of lameness in sport horses. It affects the hoof roll tract and can occur particularly in horses that are trained intensively in dressage or jumping. Regular hoof care, correct shoeing and appropriate training are crucial to prevent this disease.

➡️ Video tip: My horse is lame - what to do? Find out how vets systematically determine the cause of lameness and what methods they use to help your horse effectively - for fast and targeted treatment!

Spavin (arthrosis in the ankle joint)

Spavin is a degenerative disease of the hock joint that can affect larger warmblood horses in particular. It manifests itself through lameness and restricted movement. Early diagnosis, accompanied by joint support measures and adapted training, can have a positive influence on the course of the disease.

➡️ Video tipOsteoarthritis in horses - causes, diagnosis & treatment! Dr. Matthias Rettig explains how osteoarthritis develops, what signs indicate it and what treatment options are available. Join him for an examination and find out more about the prognosis for affected horses.

Kissing spines

Overlapping spinous processes, also known as kissing spines, are a back problem that can occur in sport horses. Improperly fitted saddles or one-sided training increase the risk. The right saddle fit and targeted gymnastics help to prevent back problems.

➡️ Video tipKissing Spines - When the back hurts! Learn from Dr. Stephan Dammer how kissing spines can be recognized and treated and what role correct riding plays in preventing them.

Colic

Colic is a common health problem in horses that can be caused by feeding errors, stress or lack of exercise. A balanced diet with high-quality hay, regular feeding intervals and sufficient exercise are essential to prevent colic.

➡️ Video tip: My horse has colic - what to do? Marlis Gronenberg from the Seeburg Equine Clinic explains the symptoms, causes and dangers of colic. Learn how to act correctly in an emergency to help your horse quickly!

Tendon damage

Oldenburg horses are prone to tendon and ligament injuries due to their intensive sporting use. A careful warm-up and cool-down phase before and after training as well as varied exercise are important to prevent tendon damage.

➡️ Video tipTendon damage in horses - causes, detection and treatment! Dr. Clemens Hayessen uses real cases to explain how tendon damage occurs, which symptoms can be detected early and which modern treatment approaches such as PRP and stem cell therapy help to promote healing. 

Breeding of Oldenburg horses

The Oldenburg breed is known for its openness to new bloodlines and its focus on performance, elegance and versatility. By combining warmblood and thoroughbred lines, the breed has developed into one of the most versatile and successful in the world.

The development of breeding

The roots of Oldenburg breeding go back to the 17th century, when Count Anton Günther von Oldenburg refined the heavy working horses of the time with noble stallions from Spain and the Orient. In the 20th century, the breeding goals shifted towards modern sport horses, which are successfully used in dressage, show jumping and eventing.

Refinement played a key role in the development of Oldenburg horses:

• Adonis xx (1959): This thoroughbred continued the successful refinement with lighter, more elegant horses.
• Furioso II and Inschallah: Stallions with French blood that revolutionized breeding in the 1960s and 1970s. They produced balanced, powerful horses that were successful in all disciplines.

The first association was founded in 1820, which introduced licensing and the now famous brand - an "O" with a crown. To this day, the organization of breeding is in the hands of the Oldenburg Horse Breeding Association, which also integrates modern technologies and international breeding lines.

Breeding lines of the Oldenburg

A special feature of Oldenburg breeding is the division into two lines:

• OL (Oldenburg Riding Horses): This line concentrates on breeding versatile riding horses that can shine equally well in dressage and show jumping.
• OS (Oldenburg show jumpers): This line was founded in 2001 and is specifically geared towards international show jumping. Only stallions and mares with proven show jumping bloodlines are used here.

The OS line produced outstanding show jumpers such as Balou du Reventon and Cornet Obolensky, who have had a significant influence on show jumper breeding worldwide.

Important stallion lines and breeding goals

The Oldenburg breeding goals are geared towards breeding a versatile sport horse. Particular emphasis is placed on rideability, athleticism and an expressive appearance. Over the years, several influential stallion lines have been established:

• D-line (thunder): This line is known for its outstanding dressage horses that impress with their rideability and willingness to perform.
• S-line (Sandro Hit): Horses of this line are characterized by a brilliant quality of movement and elegance.
• R-line (Rubinstein): Horses with a balanced character and fine rideability.
• L-line (landed gentry): Particularly successful in jumper breeding, known for his exceptional jumping ability.

Outstanding breeding stallions

Oldenburg breeding has produced many influential stallions. Some of them have had a lasting impact on breeding to this day:

Thunder reverberation

Donnerhall, bred by Otto Gärtner, was a pioneer in the combination of Old Oldenburg mares and thoroughbred stallions. After an initial reluctance to market him, he impressed at his performance test with 130 points. His rideability, basic gaits and willingness to perform quickly made him a star in the Grand Prix, where he shone internationally with Herbert and Karin Rehbein.

➡️ Video tipLearn all about the legend of breeding and its influence on modern dressage horse breeding.

Sandro Hit

Discovered at the Elite Foal Show in Vechta in 1993, Sandro Hit developed from a "difficult" young stallion into one of the most influential sires in dressage horse breeding. In 1999, under Dr. Ulf Möller, he won the World Championships for six-year-old dressage horses and the Bundeschampionat with a score of 9.5. He is one of the top 10 best dressage horse sires in the world (WBFSH SIRE Rankings).

➡️ Video tipImmerse yourself in the history of this exceptional stallion and his formative influence on dressage horse breeding.

Prince Romancier

Born in 2004, Fürst Romancier impressed with his successes in the Bundeschampionat and at the World Championships for five-year-old dressage horses. With a thoroughbred percentage of 25.59%, he has produced over 30 licensed sons, including the Oldenburg Champion Stallion and Grand Prix-successful For Romance I OLD. His offspring, such as the Burg Cup winner First Romance, dominate the dressage arena.

➡️ Video tip: Watch how the impressive dressage stallion from the Schockemöhle 2024 stallion collection is presented and demonstrates his exceptional quality

Jumper breeding

In addition to dressage breeding, show jumper breeding is promoted in a separate breeding line, the OS line (Oldenburg show jumpers). This breeding line concentrates exclusively on breeding horses for international show jumping, with stallions such as Balou du Reventon and Cornet Obolensky as figureheads.

Funding programs and marketing

The OLD sport promotion program supports top horses and their riders in order to promote the success of the breed worldwide. Examples of this are

• SAP Hale Bob OLD (Eventing with Ingrid Klimke)
• Weihegold OLD (Dressage with Isabell Werth)
• San Francisco OLD (Dressage)

The Oldenburg Horse Center in Vechta is a central location for marketing and auctions. Six auctions are held here every year, offering high-quality riding horses, young stallions, foals and broodmares.

Oldenburg Stallion Days

The Oldenburg Stallion Days are one of the highlights in the Oldenburg horse breeding calendar. This event, which takes place annually in the fall at the Oldenburg Horse Center in Vechta, attracts breeders, riders and horse lovers from all over the world.

During the Stallion Days, the best young stallions of Oldenburg breeding and Oldenburg show jumpers (OS) are presented. The focus is on the licensing and the subsequent auction. The licensing is an important test in which the stallions are assessed for their conformation, quality of movement and their potential for sport. Only the best stallions receive the coveted approval for breeding.

The subsequent auction, where top stallions are auctioned off to national and international buyers, is particularly exciting. These auctions not only offer a platform for marketing, but also a fascinating insight into the quality and level of Oldenburg horse breeding.

➡️ Event tip: Oldenburg Stallion Days 2025 - A highlight for breeders and horse lovers! From January 16 to 18, 2025, stallion legends such as Dante Weltino OLD, Morricone I, Casino Grande and many other impressive dressage and show jumping stars will be presented.

Famous Oldenburg horses

Oldenburg horses have repeatedly caused a sensation in international sport. Their versatility is reflected in their successes in dressage, show jumping and eventing.

In dressage sport

• Donnerhall: Formative sire and two-time team world champion.
• Weihegold OLD: Multiple Grand Prix winner with Isabell Werth.
• Bonfire: Olympic champion under Anky van Grunsven.

➡️ Video tipEmotional farewell to Weihegold and Isabell Werth! Experience the moving farewell of the exceptional mare who made dressage history with Isabell Werth - an unforgettable moment for all equestrian fans!

In show jumping

• Sandro Boy: 2006 World Cup Final winner with Marcus Ehning.
• Weihaiwej: Team and individual world champion under Franke Sloothaak.

In versatility

• Hale Bob OLD: Four-time European Champion and bronze medal winner at the 2018 World Championships with Ingrid Klimke. His enormous jumping ability and stamina made him one of the best eventing horses of his time.

➡️ Video tip: Farewell to Hale Bob at the CHIO Aachen 2023! Experience the emotional farewell of the exceptional horse, who has captured the hearts of equestrian sport fans worldwide - an unforgettable moment in equestrian sport!

FAQs: Frequently asked questions about Oldenburg horses

What is so special about Oldenburg horses?

Oldenburg horses stand for versatility, elegance and exceptional willingness to perform. They are among the best sport horses in the world and are successful in dressage, show jumping and eventing. Their breeding is known for the highest quality standards and openness to different bloodlines.

What do OL and OS mean in Oldenburg breeding?

The breeding of Oldenburg horses is divided into two lines:

• OL (Oldenburg riding horses): This line concentrates on breeding versatile riding horses for dressage and show jumping.
• OS (Oldenburg show jumpers): This line is specifically geared towards breeding show jumpers for international show jumping.

Which famous Oldenburg horses are there?

Some of the most famous Oldenburg horses are:

• Donnerhall, a legendary dressage stallion and formative sire.
• Weihegold OLD, the Grand Prix winner under Isabell Werth.
• Hale Bob OLD, a four-time European eventing champion.

How old do Oldenburg horses get?

With good care and species-appropriate husbandry, Oldenburgs can reach an age of 25 to 30 years.

How big are Oldenburg horses?

Oldenburg horses belong to the larger warmblood breeds and reach a height at the withers of 160 to 175 cm.

Are Oldenburg horses suitable for beginners?

Thanks to their balanced character and good rideability, well-trained Oldenburgs can also be suitable for beginners. However, it strongly depends on the individual training and temperament of the horse.

How much does an Oldenburg horse cost?

Prices for Oldenburg horses vary depending on age, pedigree and level of training. A good riding horse often costs between 15,000 and 50,000 euros, while top horses at auction can be considerably more expensive.

What are Oldenburg horses mainly used for?

Oldenburgs are mainly used in dressage, show jumping and eventing. Thanks to their versatility, they are also very popular as leisure horses.

Are Oldenburg horses susceptible to diseases?

Oldenburg horses are considered robust animals. Nevertheless, typical problems such as hoof roll inflammation or spavin can occur, especially if they are overloaded or poorly kept.

Where does the Oldenburg horse brand come from?

The brand mark - an "O" with a crown - is the symbol of Oldenburg breeding. It stands for the origin from the former Duchy of Oldenburg and is a mark of quality for the horses.