The Westphalian, also known as Westfalen, is a distinguished German warmblood breed originating from the Westphalia region in northwestern Germany. Developed primarily at the State Stud of Warendorf since 1826, the breed was initially used as versatile farm and cavalry horses. Post-World War II, selective breeding incorporating Thoroughbred, Hanoverian, and Trakehner bloodlines transformed the Westphalian into a premier sport horse. Typically standing between 16-17 hands, Westphalians are athletic, well-proportioned with powerful hindquarters and a strong, elegant neck. Their temperament is calm, intelligent, and willing, making them ideal for both amateur and professional riders. The breed excels in equestrian sports such as show jumping, dressage, eventing, and combined driving. Regulated by the Westphalian Horse Breeders' Association, the breed undergoes rigorous performance testing to ensure quality, with foals branded with the region's distinctive logo. Recognised and sought after internationally, Westphalians rank highly in FEI competitions and are valued for their rideability and athleticism, making them suitable for a variety of equestrian disciplines and riders.
Westphalian horses are German warmbloods bred for athleticism, soundness, and versatility, featuring strict breeding standards focused on correct conformation, movement, and temperament. They stand between 15.2 and 17.2 hands tall, with a refined warmblood build, muscled hindquarters, a well-set neck, and bold, elastic, rhythmic movement ideal for top equestrian sports.