The Hanoverian may be the most famous European “warmblood”, meaning the horse descended from the ancient, heavier European breeds, but the bloodline crossed with horses, like the Arabian, that have high-spirited, eastern ancestry. The combination creates a fast sport horse that still retains the strength of the European lines.

The overall look of the Hanoverian Horse could be described as simply refined. The neck, though long and fine, is still powerful as it leads down to large, sloping shoulders and clearly defined withers, also known as “shoulders” in layman's terms. The hindquarters are pronounced and muscular, sporting a high-set and regal tail. The legs and cannons, those are the bones of the foreleg between the knee and the fetlock joint, are shorter. The hooves, products of years of selective breeding, are hard and well-shaped.

You should have no problem spotting a Hanoverian though - all certified and registered Hanoverian Horses are easily identified by a branded 'H' on their hindquarters.

Because of its strong presence, stature, and stylized gait, the Hanoverian is very popular in dressage - a form of horse ballet competition that tests a horse's training as well as its grace and agility. But, as an athletic breed, the Hanoverian excels in numerous sports at the international level, including show jumping and racing.

Despite their energetic, eastern roots, the Hanoverian is known for its solid and staying temperament. Calm and stoic, the Hanoverian is a much loved breed.

Today, the Hanoverian is very popular in the Americas and Australia. The breed was established in Germany in 1735 by George II, the Elector of Hanover and King of England. The founding sires were black Holsteiners, but later more Thoroughbred blood was introduced to create a lighter, more graceful horse. By the end of the eighteenth century, strict and highly regimented pedigrees were being kept of the breed and it has remained pure ever since.

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Hanoverian - Horses for Sale