Originating from the northwest of Germany, the Westphalian is closely related to the Hanoverian. Famous Westphalian horses include Rembrandt - an Olympic dressage champion in 1988 and 1992; Ahlerich - an Olympic dressage champion in 1984; Fire - winner of the World Show Jumping Championship in 1982; Roman - winner of the World Show Jumping Championship in 1978.
In the early nineteenth century, East Prussian stallions were made available to local Nordrhein-Westfalen mares, to enable an upgrade in stock. Outcrosses were made involving Oldenburg, Hanoverian, Friesian, Anglo-Norman and trotter blood; finally, in this century, one influence was settled on, the Hanoverian. The Westphalian of today shares the bloodlines of the present day Hanoverians.

Standing 15.3 - 16.2 hands, all solid colors are acceptable in the Westphalian. Known for his intelligent head - with good width between the eyes, the Westphalian has a well shaped neck placed on a deep, broad body. Powerful hindquarters help this breed excell in dressage. The Westphalian tends to be a little longer in leg, then the Hanoverian.

Information on this breed came from "The Ultimate Book of the Horse and Rider," by Judith Draper, Debby Sly and Sarah Muir; pages 76-77. Photo's came from Westphalian Horses.