The German Riding Pony (Deutsche Reitpony) was developed in Germany 50 years ago initially to meet the need for a large pony with the athleticism and temperament for children to compete up to international level in dressage, show jumping, and eventing. This was achieved by crossing type B Welsh with smaller Warmbloods, Thoroughbreds, and Arabians to create a smaller version of the German Warmblood standing between 13.2-14.2 hands. Today they are also bred outside of Germany, including in the U.S. and Canada.
Bob Langrish photo
Characteristics
The GRP should closely resemble a small horse in their proportions with a refined head, large eyes, small ears, clean throatlatch, a long neck set well on the body with a pronounced wither and a long croup. Their movement should also be horse-like with correct, rhythmic, elastic and expressive gaits with plenty of impulsion. Much like warmblood horses, they possess talent and good movement combined with the character, charm, and intelligence of a pony.
Uses
Performance pony competitions (“tournaments”) are popular in Europe, where GRPs are shown by children and teens in dressage, show jumping, and eventing. The GRP is relatively new to North America and is becoming increasingly popular with small adults who welcome the attitude and athleticism in a compact package.
For more information, visit:
Oldenburg Horse Breeders’ Society and Weser-Ems Ponies
Whispered Wish Weser-Ems
Bob Langrish photo
