Black Forest Horse

Black Forest Horse, Schwarzwälder Kaltblut

The Black Forest Horse is a compact German riding-and-driving breed with a powerful build, pale mane, calm temperament and excellent endurance.

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Breed information

Country: Germany
Height: 153–160 cm
Weight: 500–650 kg
Coat: dark chestnut to sorrel coat with a dense pale, often cream-coloured mane and tail
Suitable for: riding & driving, forestry and farm work, harness, tourism, leisure riding, parades and therapy

Tags

horse riding & driving Black Forest Horse calm Germany

Rating

Breed characteristics

Activity 7/10

Trainability 8/10

Good with children 9/10

Shedding 6/10

Guarding 4/10

Care 6/10

Description

About the breed

Overview

The Black Forest Horse is a compact yet powerful working breed from southwestern Germany. It is easily recognised by a dark chestnut body and abundant pale mane and tail. Petsi lists a height of 153–160 cm and a weight of 500–650 kg.

History

Strong working horses from the Black Forest region are documented from at least the fifteenth century. They were essential on steep forest slopes for timber extraction, farm work and transport. Numbers declined sharply in the twentieth century, but preservation programmes saved the breed.

Use

Today Black Forest Horses are used for driving, forestry and agriculture, rural tourism, leisure riding, parades, exhibitions and equine-assisted therapy.

Temperament

Temperament and behavior

Temperament

The breed is known for a calm, balanced and good-natured temperament. These horses are people-oriented, trainable and able to work steadily in demanding environments.

Care

Care and keeping

Care

The abundant mane and tail need regular grooming. The breed can maintain body condition easily, so overfeeding should be avoided at light workloads. Turnout, good forage, water and routine hoof and dental care are important.