Wielkopolski Horse

The breed began to take shape in the 20th century by crossing two original Polish populations:
• Mazurski (Masurian) – influenced by Trakehner and German Warmblood blood
• Poznański (Poznan Horse) – with significant admixture of Thoroughbred and Arabian blood

The official studbook was recognized in 1962 under the administration of the Polish Horse Breeders' Association (PZHK) with the aim of creating a modern sporting and universal Warmblood.

Originally, the breed was used as a riding horse, for draft work and for military purposes, and with the development of the equestrian sports scene, it was reoriented to riding, show jumping, dressage and eventing.

🐴 2. Exterior and physical characteristics
📏 Dimensions and general type

Height at the withers: usually 15.1 – 16.2 hands (approx. 155–165cm).

Weight: approximately 500–600kg (medium warmblood type).

Body type: an elegant, athletic and well-proportioned riding horse that combines a strong frame with flexibility and athletic character.

🧱 Skeleton and proportions

Head: dry, fine, with a straight profile line.

Neck: long and well set, which helps balance and movement mechanics.

Chest: deep and wide, providing enough space for respiratory and cardio functions during athletic performance.

Back and rump: solid and well-muscled, with strong hind legs.

Legs: dry, with clearly defined joints and strong tendons.

🎨 Coat colors

Common colors: bay, black, chestnut, gray.

The overall appearance is sporty, athletic and elegant – suitable for disciplines that require a combination of strength, flexibility and comfortable movement.

🧠 3. Temperament and nature

The Wielkopolski is known for its excellent and stable temperament, which makes it suitable for different levels of riders:

✔ Even-tempered and docile: it has a calm nature that is sensitive to instructions and easy to learn.

✔ Decent energy: it can work with good motivation and does not tend to be nervous like some "hot" breeds.
✔ Cooperative character: willing to work with the rider without aggression or fear.
✔ Social behavior: mostly calm in the herd, gets along well with other horses.

Such a character makes the breed suitable for advanced to intermediate riders, as well as for riding schools or tourist riding.

🐎 4. How they live – requirements and care
🍽️ Nutrition

The basis is high-quality hay and grass.

During more intensive training or racing, it is necessary to supplement with balanced feed that will provide the necessary energy and nutrients.

🏡 Breeding conditions

Pasture and exercise: regular exercise and free grazing are very beneficial for physical and mental health.

Stable: dry, well-ventilated and clean environment with enough space.

🧹 Grooming and care

Hoof care: regular cleaning and possible shoeing according to the load.

Veterinary care: vaccination, regular deworming and dental check-ups.

Wielkopolski does not have special requirements beyond the normal care of a sports horse, but it is important to have a stable care routine and enough exercise.

🩺 5. Health status and common diseases

The Wielkopolski is a breed considered relatively healthy if it is properly cared for and has optimal living conditions:

🧬 Health strengths

✔ Resistant to various climatic conditions: adapted to the continental climate of Poland with weather changes.
✔ Good muscle and bone constitution: a balanced body structure reduces the risk of failure during normal exercise.

⚠️ Possible health risks

Orthopedic problems: with intensive jumping or eventing training, joint problems, arthritis or tendon strain can occur - common in sporting warmbloods.

Dietary problems: with excessive feeding without sufficient exercise, there is a risk of obesity or laminitis. (Inference from a typical warmblood - no specific source)

Digestive problems (colic): with sudden changes in feed. (Inferences from conservative care)

Prevention includes a balanced diet, appropriate training and regular veterinary check-ups.

🐴 6. Breed types and lines

Within the Wielkopolski breed, two main types can be distinguished according to use and exterior:

🟡 Lighter sports type

More influenced by Trakehner and Thoroughbred bloodlines, ideal for show jumping, dressage and all-round riding.

🟢 Heavier universal type

Slightly more robust, more suitable for recreational riding, hiking or harnessing.

These variants are not officially separate breed groups, but rather functional lines used in breeding and selecting horses according to the purpose of use.

🏅 7. Use of the breed

Wielkopolski is a very versatile warmblood and finds application in various areas of riding:

🐎 Sports disciplines

Show jumping, dressage, eventing — thanks to its athletic character and willingness to work.

🚗 Sledding and pulling

Thanks to its stable body structure and endurance, it is also used in lighter sledges.

🐾 Recreational riding

Suitable for regular riding, hiking and riding for advanced recreational riders.

🐕‍🦺 Riding schools / therapy

Its stable nature also allows it to be used in riding schools and hippotherapy.