Originating in the Gelder provinces of the Netherlands, the Gelderlander horse is a part of Dutch heritage. The horse is impressive both in its appearance and bearing. Its founding breeders intended to produce a powerful carriage horse with a regal presence, but there was also an emphasis placed on promoting an easy and tractable temperament. It is, perhaps, the Gelerderlander's wonderful personalities, that have made the breed so popular.

In addition to their gentle nature, they are also a truly striking beast and therefore perfect for the duties of a formal carriage horse. Their unique gait is often referred to as lofty - it's very rhythmical and pronounced, thanks to their big shoulders. The tail is carried high and though the head is plain, it sits atop a curved, long, graceful neck.

In color, they are almost always chestnut or gray. The Gelderlander can also have white markings on the face and feet, but never any feathering on the legs. Feathering is the long hair on a horse's lower legs and it's common on heavier breeds.

Though bred for the carriage, the Gelderlander is a powerful competitor on the harness and coach racing circuit. It competes in teams bred and trained for the sport and must be able to perform in tense situations and in conjunction with its peers.

The breed was developed in the Netherlands, but its roots are much more worldly. Influence on the Gelderlander horse breed comes from a variety of bloodlines, including Roadsters, Arabians, Olenburgers, Cleveland Bays, and the Orlov Horses of Russia.

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Gelderlander - Horses for Sale