Horse breeds / Dutch Warmblood
Photo: Remy Overkempe · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Horse breed
Dutch Warmblood
The Dutch Warmblood developed in the Netherlands from a mix of native Dutch riding and driving horses, with infusions of Thoroughbred, Anglo-Arab and European warmblood stock. It was bred as an all-round sport horse, capable in dressage, show jumping and eventing, and it has become one of the most successful sport breeds in the world. Breeding is closely managed through stallion licensing and performance testing.
Dutch Warmbloods are usually calm, rideable and willing, with good scope and an athletic, balanced way of going. Most have a steady temperament that suits capable amateurs, though young or very forward individuals can need an experienced hand. They tend to be honest and forgiving, and many do well for riders moving up through the levels in disciplines from dressage to jumping.
Day to day, a Dutch Warmblood needs regular, structured work and daily turnout to stay sound and mentally settled. They are generally sociable and do best with equine companionship and a predictable routine. Expect a commitment of several hours of care and training each day, along with good farrier and veterinary attention.
Good for: Experienced amateur riders, sport competitors
| Size | large |
| Weight | 1102–1323 lb |
| Height | 63–69 in |
| Life span | 25–30 years |
| Exercise | about 60 min a day |
| Shedding | moderate |
| Origin | Netherlands |
Dutch Warmbloods are athletic and need consistent work, so a first-time owner should plan for regular training or a skilled trainer.
Living with a Dutch Warmblood
Exercise
Most Dutch Warmbloods need five to six days of ridden or in-hand work each week, plus daily turnout. Too little work can lead to excess energy, stiffness and behavior problems under saddle.
Grooming
Their coat is fine to medium and easy to maintain, with a sleek summer look and a thicker winter coat. Mane and tail are typically full but not heavy, and they need regular brushing. Hooves need regular farrier care every five to eight weeks, and clipping is optional depending on workload and climat
At home
Dutch Warmbloods adapt well to both stabling and turnout, though most thrive with several hours outside daily in a small group. They are sturdy and cope well with cold and wet weather when given shelter and forage. Most are moderate to good keepers, and feed should be matched to workload, since performance horses often need added energy and protein.
Training
Dutch Warmbloods are intelligent, quick to learn and generally cooperative, which makes them well suited to dressage, show jumping and eventing. A green horse of this breed often shows good natural balance and a willing attitude, but may need patience while it builds strength and focus. Expect steady progress with consistent, correct training rather than rapid results.
Health
Dutch Warmbloods are generally sound, but the breed has been associated with some orthopedic conditions, including osteochondrosis in young horses. Breeding programs screen for many issues, so ask a veterinarian and the breeder about inspection and health records before buying.
- Osteochondrosis
- Laminitis
- Colic
Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.
The numbers for a Dutch Warmblood
Forage and water, adult
18–30 lb of hay a day
Forage at 1.5–2.5% of body weight at 1102–1323 lb, and 11–19 gallons of water, more in heat and on hay alone. Grain only for the work being done.
What a year costs
$3,300–$5,550
Hay about $2,102, plus farrier every 6–8 weeks, routine vet, dental and dewormer. Board, lessons and showing on top; US averages.
Weather
Watch above 80°F, stop at 90°F
Blanket or shelter below 10°F. Horses mind heat more than cold: with shelter and water most are fine to about 10°F unclipped, and above a heat index of 150 (air °F + humidity %) ride early or not at all.
Where a Dutch Warmblood is comfortable
Easy most of the year: Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Washington, DC, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.
Summer needs care (early rides, shade, fans): Arizona, Nevada, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah.
Winter needs care (blanket, shelter, water that is not frozen): North Dakota.
From typical July highs and January lows by state and this breed's heat and cold limits. Shade, shelter and water change everything; this is about turnout and work.
Right now
Latest feed recalls
Multiple Brand Names: Chicken Feed, Swine Feed, Cattle Feed, Horse Feed
ADM Animal Nutrition · Apr 1 · Specific lots may contain elevated levels of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium and/or chloride and may harm chickens, swine, beef cattle and equine.
Rescue a Dutch Warmblood
Shelters and breed rescues list Dutch Warmbloods and Dutch Warmblood mixes every week. Search adoptable Dutch Warmbloods on Petfinder → New to the breed? The first-horse kit →
Is a Dutch Warmblood right for you?
- Yes if you want a dressage or jumping prospect
- Yes if you ride regularly and can commit to structured training
- Yes if you want a calm, rideable horse with athletic ability
- Think twice if you want a low-maintenance trail horse
- Think twice if you have little time for daily work
Questions owners ask
Are Dutch Warmbloods good for beginners?
Most suit experienced amateurs better than beginners. Calm individuals can work for confident novices, but they usually need guidance and regular professional support.
How much does a Dutch Warmblood cost?
Prices vary widely by age, training and bloodlines. Young prospects cost less than made, competition-ready horses, and top performance bloodlines can be very expensive.
How tall do Dutch Warmbloods get?
Most stand about 160 to 175 centimeters at the withers, roughly 16 to 17 hands, though individuals vary somewhat.
How long do Dutch Warmbloods live?
Dutch Warmbloods commonly live 25 to 30 years with good care, nutrition and veterinary attention throughout their lives.
Are Dutch Warmbloods easy keepers?
Most are moderate keepers. Performance horses in regular work often need more energy and protein, so feed should be adjusted to workload and body condition.
Similar breeds
Written by Hoofdeck editors · updated Nov 13, 2026 · facts from Wikidata and Wikimedia Commons; health notes are general veterinary guidance, not a diagnosis.