Altmärkisches Kaltblut (cold
blood) horses were developed in the 19th century with a foundation stock of
Percheron, Belgian, and Shire horses. The result was a versatile, genial animal
with a good work ethic, gaining them instant recognition. Altmärkische Kaltblut
hosrse thrived until the early 20th century brought war, which took its toll on
many draft breeds of Europe.
Today they are very rare,
with a remaining population of 120 mares and 20 stallions keeping the gene pool
alive. There is an attempt to revive the breed using Belgian stallions that fit
the characteristic performance phenotype.
Altmärkisches Kaltblut horses
come in all solid colors and are 15.2 to 16.1 hands high. They have a striking
head with straight profile and large eyes. They have a strong, well-positioned
neck; a medium length and strong back; a deep chest with sloping shoulder; and
large hard hooves.