What is a Hanoverian?

For generations, the Hanoverian horse has been recognized as one of the most prominent and successful breeds of riding horses in the world today. The breed originated in northern Germany in the state of Lower Saxony, the former kingdom of Hannover, where a flourishing horse-breeding industry has existed for 400 years. The State Stud was established at Celle in 1735, and the Hanoverian Studbook was officially begun in 1888. 

The breed retains the substantial bone, sturdiness and stamina of its heritage: nearly 300 years ago the Hanoverian was bred to serve as a robust carriage and military horse. Since the end of World War II, the breeding goal has been to exclusively produce a more versatile performance horse. The Hanoverian has natural impulsion and light and elastic gaits characterized by a ground-covering walk, a floating trot, and a soft, round, rhythmic canter.

 

Quality performance prospects are the result of the Hanoverian selection process. Each year the American Hanoverian Society (AHS) organizes a national inspection tour to register foals, inspect and performance test mares, and license stallions. The Mare Performance Test (MPT) scores a mare’s rideability, gaits and jumping talent. All stallion candidates must be presented for physical inspection. If scores on conformation, movement and jumping ability are sufficient, a temporary breeding license is granted. Stallions must then either complete the 100-Day Stallion Test, which evaluates their gaits, trainability and athletic ability in dressage, show jumping and cross country, or they must meet specified performance requirements. In order for a foal to be registered, both the sire and dam must be AHS approved. Breeding eligibility is verified annually.

Information and photo courtesy of the American Hanoverian Society, www.hanoverian.org.

Pictured: EMC Posh, owned and ridden by Elizabeth Fouch and bred by George Walker III, S.C.  Photo © 2007 Hoofclix