Menu
The Alt-Oldenburger and Ostfriese, once considered separate breeds, are now often discussed together due to their intertwined histories and similar characteristics. Originating from the Lower Saxony region in Germany, these horses are celebrated for their elegance, strength, and versatility. Historically, they played a crucial role in the development of agriculture and transportation in their native region, showcasing a remarkable adaptability to various tasks.
The Alt-Oldenburger and Ostfriese breeds have roots stretching back to the 17th century, with their breeding heavily influenced by Spanish and Neapolitan horses. Over the centuries, selective breeding focused on creating a horse that was both strong for farm work and elegant enough for carriage driving, contributing significantly to the regional horse breeding tradition.
Known for their calm and cooperative temperament, the Alt-Oldenburger and Ostfriese horses stand out with their muscular build and expressive heads. They typically range in height from 160 to 170 cm, displaying a variety of coat colors, though black, bay, and chestnut are predominant. Their versatility and gentle nature make them well-suited for a wide range of equestrian disciplines.
Throughout their history, Alt-Oldenburger and Ostfriese horses have been utilized in agriculture, carriage driving, and as riding horses. Today, they continue to excel in dressage and show jumping, with their strength and agility being particularly valued. Moreover, their docile nature also makes them excellent choices for therapeutic riding and leisure activities.
Currently, the Alt-Oldenburger and Ostfriese horses are considered rare, with dedicated efforts being made to preserve their lineage and characteristics. Conservation initiatives in Germany are focused on maintaining the breeds’ genetic diversity, promoting sustainable breeding practices to ensure their future presence.
Germany
region / national
Critical: less than 1000
158-168 cm
Bay, black, chestnut, grey
GEH
Rare and endangered
Altoldenburger / Altostfriesisches Schweres Warmblut Pferd — AOL
All my pictures of rare and endangered horses can be licensed for private, editorial and commercial usage, and ordered as Fine Art Print as well. In addition, the albums only show a part of my large archive. Contact me directly if you don’t find what you are looking for.
Here are some places where you can see where you can support the rare and endangered breed. Above all I want to thank everybody who works with me.
Take part in my projects Forgotten Horses and Free Horses and consequently make an impact that matters. By photographing rare and endangered horses we can raise awareness to disappearing horse breeds and therefore preserve equine diversity.
Are you looking for professional photos of rare and endangered horse breeds? You will find a small selection of my pictures in the breed posts, however you may ask for more specific photos directly. In short, all my pictures can be licensed for private, editorial and commercial usage.
Do you want to see more of my photos? Please follow my accounts on Instagram and on Facebook and don’t miss any new updates and pictures of my projects.
Are you looking for professional photos of wildlings, rare breeds, horses in different countries and amazing locations? You will find a small selection of my pictures on my website, but you may ask for more specific photos directly. All my pictures can be licensed for private, editorial and commercial usage.
Sign up for my Explorer Report to be the first about receiving informations about new Explorer Tours, announcements for photographic adventures and updates for upcoming Expeditions via email.
