Swedish Warmblood

The Swedish Warmblood orginated in the early 17th century in the Swedish studs of Stromsholmm which was established in 1621, and the Royal Stud of Flyinge, established in 1658. Early formation of the breed was based on a very diverse breeding process which did not result in any kind of fixed type. Early crosses involved a Spanish, oriental and Friesian stallions which were crossed with local stock, and horses were imported to the stud from countries as diverse as Turkey, Hungary, England, Russia, France, Germany, and Spain. Although no type was established, the resulting stock produced was a useful riding horse, which was favored by the military for use within the cavalry.

The early stock was quite coarse in appearance, which was probably due to the local native mares of no outstanding physical appearance. Later, the progeny was improved by infusions of Thoroughbred, Hanoverian, Arab, and most importantly, Trakehner blood. Through a careful process of selecting the best of the progeny and interbreeding, a fixed type emerged which became known as the Swedish Warmblood. Notable stallions which had a good effect on the breed were the Thouroughbred, Hampelmann, the Hanoverians, Hamlet, Schwabliso, and Tribun, and most importantly the recent influence of the Trakehner stallions, Polarstern, Anno, Heinfried, and Heristal, who is a direct descendent of the famous English racehorse Hyperion.

The excellent qualities of the Swedish Warmblood are maintained through a rigorous selection process to which both mares and stallions are subjected before being granted a breeding license. The Assessments for stallions involves testing of all the paces and gaits, jumping ability, cross-country ability, and temperament, while mares have to demonstrate good paces. The modern Swedish Warmblood is a big, quality horse of great ability in dressage, showjumping, and eventing competitions. they naturally have good conformation and a calm and well-balanced temperament.

In appearance, they have an attractive head set to a long and well-formed neck. The shoulders should be muscular and sloping, allowing for free movement, the chest is broad and deep, they are compact through the body, with well-sprung ribs, and muscular quarters. They have solid strong legs and a well shaped foot. They are usually bay, brown, chestnut, or gray, but can be any solid color, and stand at approximately 16.2 hh.

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