Last updated: 2 August 2026
Horse breeds
KWPN
KWPN is a Dutch warmblood studbook rather than a fully closed breed, with separate breeding directions for dressage, jumping, harness horse and Gelder horse.
- Origin
- the Netherlands
- Height
- Usually 1.60 to 1.70 m at the withers.
- Disciplines
- World-leading in dressage and showjumping, with harness horses and eventing also within the studbook.
- Character
- sporty and athletic
- For beginners
- With experienced guidance
Origin
The KWPN originally comes from the Netherlands. KWPN is a Dutch warmblood studbook rather than a fully closed breed, with separate breeding directions for dressage, jumping, harness horse and Gelder horse.
Appearance and character
Playful breed indicator (from the app)
These are playful indicators from the HorseJournal app, not a scientific or official breed standard. They describe general tendencies. Every horse is different.
Good for beginners?
The KWPN is more of a sporty, energetic type. Beginners ride this breed best with guidance from an experienced instructor.
Did you know?
With KWPN, much depends on the breeding direction. Dressage and jumping lines can differ quite a lot.
Famous horses and remarkable facts
Valegro
Valegro is one of the most famous dressage horses ever and is in the KWPN Hall of Fame; with Charlotte Dujardin he scored 93.4 percent in the Grand Prix Freestyle in 2014, listed by the FEI as the highest ever.
Frequently asked questions
How tall does a KWPN get?
Usually 1.60 to 1.70 m at the withers.
Which disciplines is the KWPN suited for?
World-leading in dressage and showjumping, with harness horses and eventing also within the studbook.
What health points are linked to the KWPN?
Generally a healthy sport horse; as with warmbloods it is worth screening young horses for osteochondrosis (OCD), and a pre-purchase exam and responsible breeding remain advisable.
How old does a KWPN get on average?
About 25 to 30 years.
Can I mix the KWPN with another breed?
Yes. In the HorseJournal Breed Mixer you pick the KWPN and a second breed, and the app creates your own dream breed with a name, a profile in your own language and an illustration.
