The Hanoverian ranks under the well-known German warmblood breeds and results from the interest of the Kings of England and Hanover in the horses of the region. King George I had a lot of English Thoroughbred stallions crossed with various local Hanoverian mares, some of them descendants of the heavy horses of the medieval times. George II from England founded the state stud ("Landgestüt") at Celle in 1735, keeping Holstein and Thoroughbred stallions. For many years the breeding of all-purpose horses for riding, driving and agriculture was the aim of the stud. After world war II the breed changed over to create elegant riding and sport horses with the help of Trakehner and Thoroughbred blood.

Today the Hanoverian is a very successful top-dressage and showjumping breed. The average height is 160 to 170 cm, its characteristics are power, willingness to work, calmness and good manners. It has the spirit of the English Thoroughbred, but not its speed. The outer appearance is good, but sometimes simple. All clear colours exist, but mostly bay, red-bay and black.

The Hanoverian is an internationally respected type of the modern riding horse with international success in dressage and showjumping.

   Hannoveraner Verband e.V.

   British Hanoverian Horse Society