 A Coldblood Trotter of mixed Swedish and Norwegian lines | |
| Country of origin | Norway and Sweden |
|---|---|
| Traits | |
| Distinguishing features | Heavy horse bred for harness racing |
| Breed standards | |
A Coldblood Trotter is a term for one of two closely related and interconnected horse breeds: the Norsk Kaldblodstraver (Norwegian Coldblood Trotter) (also known as Dole Trotter) and the Svensk Kallblodstravere (Swedish Coldblood Trotter). Coldblood trotters are the result of crossbreeding lighter and faster horses with native coldblooded farm horses, either the Norwegian Dølehest or the North Swedish Horse. Although the Norwegian and Swedish coldblood trotters are substantially considered a single breed,[1] two national studbooks are maintained, and registration requirements differ in some respects between the two countries.
Characteristics edit
Both Norwegian and Swedish trotters were originally developed from local draught breeds: Norwegian from the Dölahest, Swedish from the North Swedish Horse. In North Swedish horse a lighter subtype, nowadays the trotter type, has always existed,[2] while the Norwegian trotter was created by crossbreeding Dölahest with hotblood horses. Neither of the breeds is as fast as the Standardbred, the worldwidely predominant, light harness racing breed.
In Norwegian lines, the average height at the withers for stallions is 154 cm (15.1 hands), and all individuals should stand at least 148 cm (14.2 hands). Bay in all its variations is the most common coat colour, followed by chestnut and black.[3]
The Norwegian is a good-natured and versatile breed. It is adapted to Scandinavian climate, and is small, sturdy, hardy, and an easy keeper. It usually has a calm temperament, but also a fierce competitor's instinct; this is especially prevalent in horses that have been raced.
History edit
The Dole trotter was developed from the old working Dole horse that was crosbred with several lighter horse breeds, including Thoroughbreds and Arabians. The aim was to create a nimbler and faster horse.
Prevalence edit
The Swedish and Norwegian coldblood trotter breeds with Finnhorse are the three heavy breeds used for harness racing in Nordic countries.
Today there are about 10,000 coldblood trotters in Sweden and approximately 5200 in Norway.[4][2]
Uses edit
The coldblood trotter is bred for use in harness racing. The two types compete in shared heats not admissible by light trotter breeds or Finnhorses. Many trotters, whether ex racers or completely unraced, are used in recreational riding and for hobby level dressage and show jumping.
In Sweden, Coldblood Trotters are very popular in teaching for their energy, endurance, and steady nature.[2]
References edit
- ^ "Coldblooded trotter". Nordgen. Retrieved May 2011.
{{cite web}}: Check date values in:|accessdate=(help) - ^ a b c "Hästarna". Svensk Travsport. Retrieved 2011-05-04.
- ^ "Avlsplan for kaldblodshester" (PDF) (in Norwegian). Det Norsk Travselskap. Retrieved May 2011.
Breeding plan for Coldblood Trotter
{{cite web}}: Check date values in:|accessdate=(help) - ^ http://www.amot.gs.hm.no/avis/sport/hestesport.htm
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