British Warmbloods

A warmblood horse breed is a breed that was developed from a mixture of "hot" blood (Arabian, Thoroughbred) and "cold" blood (draft breeds).

The warmblood name is usually used to refer to many of the sport horses commonly seen performing in equestrian competitions such as dressage, show jumping and eventing. In short, warmbloods are a breed with specific qualities for riding.

The warmblood’s are simply named after the countries in which they are bred. In the case of what is normally known as a British Warmblood; they are horses of British parentage that bred with the qualities needed for specific sporting events.

The main difference for horse breeders working with warmbloods, is the rigorous documentation, selection and testing for breeding stock to ensure that the sire and dam meet the correct criteria. As there is mandatory testing for all horses with the emphasis placed on temperament and rideability breeders are very careful about pedigree.

Being designated a warmblood stallion or mare also means that they are certified by the British Warmblood breeders associations. The grading and testing processes prior to registration are extremely rigorous with high standards defined by rules and regulations that have been established over decades. This is done to ensure that continued quality of the warmblood and the highest standards for the sporting events at which they compete are met.

British equine competitors take their sport extremely seriously and it is reflected in the care they exercise over the equine athletes that compete in them. In Britain there are three Warmblood Societies; The British Hanoverian Horse Society, The British Warmblood Society and The Trakehner Breeders Fraternity.