The Mecklenburg
OverviewCountry of Origin: Germany
The Mecklenburg is a relatively small studbook that has produced international caliber competition horses. Breed HistoryThe Mecklenburg originates from the Mecklenburg-Vorpommem region of north-eastern Germany. Much like many other german warmblood breeds, they were bred as utility horses, used primarily for cavalry, transport and agriculture. During World War I, the horses were bred to be heavier, capable of pulling artillery wagons. After the end of World War II, like most modern warmbloods, breeding began to turn towards producing modern riding horses.
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Chacco-Blue - International Grand Prix winner and prominent sire
Source: http://www.horsemagazine.com/thm/2015/09/chacco-blue/ |
Breed Characteristics
The modern Mecklenburg stands ideally between 15.3 and 17 hands. Mecklenburgs are middle-weight, atheletic horses that are rather heavier than Thoroughbreds. They are distinguished from older "heavy warmbloods" by the influence of Thoroughbred and Arabian blood. The ideal Mecklenburg is a hardy horse with good character, mental and physical stamina, and a balanced temperament.
The modern Mecklenburg is identified by the presence of the Mecklenburg brand on the left hip (the letter "M" topped with a crown). Coat color and pattern are not part of the standard, but most Mecklenburgs are bay, chestnut, black, or gray.
The modern Mecklenburg is identified by the presence of the Mecklenburg brand on the left hip (the letter "M" topped with a crown). Coat color and pattern are not part of the standard, but most Mecklenburgs are bay, chestnut, black, or gray.
Naming Convention
Foals are named using the same letter as the sire's name.
Breed Uses
The modern Mecklenburg was influenced by Thoroughbred and Arabian blood and is an athletic riding and driving horse, similar to the Hanoverian.
They are especially suited to dressage and showjumping, but are also well suited for combined driving, eventing, and show hunter competition.
They are especially suited to dressage and showjumping, but are also well suited for combined driving, eventing, and show hunter competition.
Additional Resources
Verband der Pferdezüchter Mecklenburg-Vorpommern - http://www.pferdezuchtverband-mv.de
