Hungarian Coldblood

By PetMD Editorial on Dec. 15, 2009

The Hungarian Coldblood is, in fact, not native to Hungary, but was developed from horse breeds brought over by borderland residents returning from Austria. Sometimes called the Magyar Hidegyerü, the Hungarian Coldblood is best used for farm and heavy draft work.

Physical Characteristics

The Hungarian Coldblood usually stands between 15 and 17 hands high. It has a well-proportioned, muscular body, a wide chest, downward-sloped croup, and sturdy limps. In addition, the Hungarian Coldblood is often seen in bay, gray, chestnut, and black, further accentuated by its rich, thick mane. Other coat colors that may be seen include hoary, dun, and roan.

Personality and Temperament

The Hungarian Coldblood is intelligent, obedient, and efficient -- all excellent qualities for a farm horse.

History and Background

Technically speaking, the Hungarian Coldblood is not native to Hungary. However, it is there that the breed was developed, the result of Austrian immigrants bringing draft horses with them to the region. Later, other immigrants brought their Noriker and Pinzauger horses with them, both of which are acclaimed for their strength. Intensive crossbreeding enused and two major varieties resulted: the Pinkafö and the Murakoz. The Pinkafö is a heavy draft and riding horse. The Murakoz is more agile and lighter than the Pinkafö.

These two variants were then interbred. The result was the earliest Hungarian Coldblood horse. A dispute ensued as to whether the Coldblood ought to be further improved or whether the breed was good as it was. It was eventually resolved that the breed needed further improvement. More interbreeding occurred, resulting in a more stable and stronger Hungarian Coldblood breed. The new horse breed was then introduced through various equestrian and breeding competitions.

Even after the breed was recognized, crossbreeding and improvement of the breed did not stop. Austrian and French blood, among others, were infused into the mix. However, these crossbreeding efforts have not compromised the genetic quality of the Hungarian Coldblood.