Horse
Breed Description:
The Black Forest horse is a cold-blood draft horse that is very rare. Native to Germany, the Black Forest horse is endangered, although efforts to restore the breed have been underway for over 20 years. The Black forest breed of horse is generally sorrel or dark chestnut in color, although rare variations have been seen that are bay or gray in color. The breed is short with a large head and a muscular and compact neck. Weighing over 1200 pounds, the Black Forest horse is well-suited to pull carriages and perform agricultural or forestry work. The Black Forest horse has dense bones, sound hooves and well formed joints. The Black Forest breed of horse is easily recognized by its luxurious blonde manes and tails.
Temperament:
The Black Forest breed of horse is a gentle and willing animal. Loud noises, strange objects, and crowded situations do not bother this breed, and they remain calm and attentive at nearly all times. They are excellent with children and inexperienced riders, and can be trusted to perform as requested.
Height:
14.2 to 15.3 hh, with some specimens reaching as much as 16 hh
Health Problems:
There are no known health problems that the Black Forest breed of horse is genetically predisposed to. Because of the rarity of this animal, breeding programs are highly restrictive in the animals selected for breeding, and therefore stallions and mares are consistently found in superior health.
Origin:
The Black Forest breed of horse has a history that is rooted firmly in Germany. About 700 years ago, the breed was developed to work in Germany’s ancient Black Forests. After decades of forestry work, the breed was adapted to pull carriages, farm equipment, and for general riding purposes. The World Wars in Europe practically decimated the breed, but with the help of the German government, the Black Forest breed of horse has survived. Today the numbers of this breed of horse are growing, although it is still considered an endangered breed. 