Schwarzwälder Füchse - Black Forest Horses

The Black Forest Horse, as it's name suggests, originated in the Black Forest in Baden-Württemberg in south west Germany. The Black Forest Horse is also referred to as Schwarzwälder Füchs, Schwarzwälder Kaltblut, "Wälder" horse, or Saint Märgener. They are a small, hardy draft horse which is suitable for the highlands with its long winters. They were originally selected for working on farmland and in forestry regions. Today they are mainly used as coach horses and for riding. They are nimble and lively, have a gentle nature, and are very durable and strong. The Black Forest horse is known for it's high fertility, is long-lived, and are very easy keepers. Their body color, as suggested by the name, is mostly dark chestnut (German:Kohlfuchs) with light (blonde/flaxen) mane and tail. Their coloring can vary slightly into a sorrel, however the most popular color is the dark chestnut. Black Forest Farmers refer to the Black Forest horses as the "Pearls of the Black Forest" because of their positive/easy nature, gentle disposition, and their sheer elegance and beauty.

The Black Forest breed dates as far back as 600 years. By the end of the 1800's the first studbook was established, thereby creating state regulated breeding stock and breeding regulation/qualifications. By the 21st Century the breeding goals, diligently sought after by both breeder and the State, were accomplished. The end result being a gentled minded versatile family horse.

As civilization evolved and machinery began to overtake the use of work horses, the existence of the Black Forest breed became greatly endangered. In 1981, there were a mere 160 registered broodmares. Breeders and owners of these gentle horses began diversifying the uses of the Black Forest Horse. They handsomely pull brewery wagons, wedding carriages, and carry any size rider easily through varied terrain. Their good character and gentle disposition has earned them a well-deserved role in aiding children in therapeutic riding facilities.

Today, there are still only 46 State Approved Stallions (16 stallions standing at the State owned Stud Farm in Marbach/Baden-Wurttemberg, the others standing at private breeding facilities) and approximately 700 registered mares in Germany. These numbers continue to rise as the popularity of the breed once again reaches new heights.

Breed Description:
Height:	Mares 1.48m to 1.56m (14.3 to 15-2 1/2 hands). Stallions up to 1.60m (16 hands).
Weight:	approx. 500 - 600 kg's (1250-1400 lbs).
Color:	Sorrel to dark chestnut with blonde/flaxen mane and tail.
Build:	Head: elegant, defined, expressive and kind eye. Neck: muscular, refined set. Body: light to medium frame, strong and sloping shoulder, wide muscular hind quarters. Well muscled body, large strong joints and hardy hooves.
Movement:	Extended stride in walk and trot.
Versatility:	Farm and Forestry, Driving and Riding for Pleasure and Show.
Performance test:	Pulling and Driving.
Branding:	Horses born in Baden-Württemberg will receive the "famous" Spruce Tree brand.