Warlander - horses for sale

Origin and history of breeding Warlanders

While Iberian/Friesian crosses have been popular for many years, it was the Classical Sporthorse Stud in Western Australia which established the cross as a breed in the 1990s, naming it the Warlander. The aim was to produce a high-quality riding horse with plenty of impulsion and grace. The Classical Sporthorse Stud believed that the combination of Friesian and Iberian qualities had the potential to create a “super horse”. The Friesian, having been mainly developed as an all-rounder with the focus on performance in harness, had spectacular action, drive and impulsion. The Iberian breeds had outstanding rideability, flexibility and collection. The formal breeding programme began in 1992 when the stud acquired its first Friesian stallion. The standards are set by the International Warlander Society and Registry. To qualify as a Warlander, horses must result from the crossbreeding of purebred Iberians and Friesians. The two breeds must adhere to their own individual breed standards of purity. In the case of the Iberian, it should be a registered PRE (Pura Raza Española, or Andalusian) or Lusitano, or a registered cross of PRE and Lusitano. It must also have undergone DNA testing. Friesians should be registered with the recognised American or European registries. Specifically, Warlanders “must not be more than 3/4 (75%), nor less than 1/4 (25%)” of each of the two foundation breeds. They must have no influence from any other breeds. Warlanders may be crossed with other Warlanders so long as the other criteria still apply. Because the breed is so new, the possible genetic implications of the various crosses have not been fully resolved.

Warlanders in equestrianism

The Classical Sporthorse Stud always intended the Warlander to be an exceptional riding horse, capable of performance at the highest levels of equestrian competition. The Warlander's harmonious movements and elegant topline, combined with power and a sense of drama, make it an excellent choice for dressage. Its Baroque appearance also makes the breed a superb choice for historical re-enactment and riding displays. Warlanders are likely to become a breed of choice for film, equine theatre and TV work.