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Developed in Germany in the 18th century, the Hanoverian is a world-renowned horse breed that stands an average of 15 to 18 hands tall (or 60 to 72 inches in height). Its easy control, great determination, speed, agility, endurance, and fine movements are the reason riders love using the Hanoverian in various sporting events, including show jumping and dressage.

Physical Characteristics

The Hanoverian is a large horse with a straight, outlined head, clear eyes and small ears. Its neck is slender yet muscular. In addition, the Hanoverian has brawny shoulders, a deep, broad chest and sturdy legs with flexible joints. The horse's coat, which is bay, brown and black in color, is thick, as are its tail and mane.

Personality and Temperament

Aside from its extraordinary physique, the Hanoverian has a very outstanding attitude; it is determined, docile and, most importantly, disciplined.

Care and Health

Because the Hanoverian is placed in a special breeding stud, every horse undergoes quality control and must pass the standards of a sports horse. Today, many Hanoverian fanciers are looking to improve the breed by crossbreeding the Hanoverian with other purebred horses in order to create a more sophisticated, athletic but gentle horse -- one that is able to compete in a variety of sporting events.

History and Background

During the 1700s, many stallions and mares were imported to Germany from neighboring European and Asian countries for the purpose of breeding. The Hanoverian is said to have resulted from such efforts, possibly a crossbreeding of the local German mares and some purebreds, such as the Thoroughbred and the Traekehner. Bred mainly for the purpose of farm work and riding, the Hanoverian’s patience, speed and strength was well-suited for such tasks. Today, the Hanoverian is a well-known, highly-valued horse breed that is used in competitive sporting events.