Horse
Pronunciation:
Mek-len'-burg-ger
Breed Description:
The Mecklenburger breed of horse has a very distinct marking that sets it apart from most other breeds. Mecklenburgers have the region’s brand, that being the letter ‘M”, on its left hip with a crown above it. Like the German warm bloods, the Mecklenburger can be found with bay, grey, chestnut, or black coats. The Mecklenburger’s head is regal and refined with a narrow neck and prominent withers. Mecklenburger horses have a sturdy back with an elongated and toned croup. The breed’s chest and shoulders should be strong and lengthy, and have well-rounded hooves. The sound frame of the Mecklenburger makes for an all around utility horse, used for cavalry, transportation and farming needs.
Temperament:
The Mecklenburger is an energetic breed with a calm and willing disposition. Mecklenburgers are also a very athletic breed that has been used for numerous activities ranging from show jumping to cavalry work. Once used heavily for pulling stage coaches, the breed was developed to be strong and efficient. Because of its consistent use in military and cavalry applications, the breed was further refined to be nimble, sporty, and obedient.
Height:
15.3 hh to 17 hh
Health Problems:
The Mecklenburger is a hardy breed with no known genetic disorders. It is able to withstand extremes in climate and environment and is able to subsist on little feed or feed of poor quality. The Mecklenburger is noted for possessing great stamina. While the Mecklenburger remains illness free throughout most of its lifetime it may occasionally experience afflictions that common in the breeds used in its development. Due to the high level of Arabian and Thoroughbred blood, joint and bone problems, fertility issues, pulmonary diseases and conditions affecting the immune system may occur in some specimens.
Origin:
The Mecklenburger breed of horse originated in the early 18th century at the Redefin State Stud in north eastern Germany. Prior to World War II the Mecklenburger was used for all lines of work ranging from transportation to cavalry needs. During the war, Mecklenburgers were bred to pull artillery wagons, and around the mid 1940’s there were a great many Mecklenburgers in use at dozens of military outposts all over Europe and Northern Africa. It wasn’t until the beginning of the 1970’s that the Mecklenburger was bred as a show and riding horse. 