Buy Groningen

Groningen for sale: Buying and selling Groningen

There’s a particular kind of quiet power you feel when you stand next to a good Groningen horse—solid, honest, and ready to work without fuss. For many of us who’ve spent years around warmbloods and sport horses, the Groningen offers something a bit different: a dependable, old-style workhorse that still holds its own in modern riding and driving arenas.

The Groningen originated in the northern Netherlands, developed as a strong, versatile farm and carriage horse. Traditionally, they were bred to pull heavy loads in wet fields and still look smart in harness on Sunday. That history shows in their build: substantial bone, a deep body, a strong, well-muscled neck, and a calm, sensible head. While the pure Groningen population is relatively small and carefully managed, their blood has influenced other Dutch types, and you’ll still find horses marketed as Groningen or Groningen-type in many European and international marketplaces.

In terms of use, Groningen horses are popular for driving, recreational riding, low- to mid-level dressage, and as family or leisure horses. They’re known for their reliability, good feet, and a workmanlike temperament—often a better fit for riders who value safety and sanity over extreme sensitivity and sharpness. That combination of strength, soundness, and straightforward character is exactly why buyers seek them out, especially those wanting a partner for long-term, everyday riding rather than chasing the top of the FEI rankings. When you see “Groningen for sale” in an advert, you’re usually looking at a horse bred to be steady, durable, and practical above all else.

Buying Groningen - what you need to know

When you’re buying a Groningen, start by looking at the fundamentals: conformation, temperament, and soundness. They should stand on good, clean legs with substantial bone, strong joints, and well-shaped, hard hooves. The back should be strong and not overly long, with a deep girth and a powerful hindquarter—remember, this is a horse bred to pull and carry. Movement in a Groningen is often more grounded and powerful than flashy; you’re looking for a clear, regular rhythm, active hind leg, and a free shoulder, not extravagant knee action for its own sake.

Temperament is where this breed shines, and it’s where you should spend time during a viewing. A good Groningen will be willing, level-headed, and unflappable in new surroundings. Try the horse in the arena and outside if possible. See how it reacts to a new rider, a bit of noise, or another horse coming close. For many riders—especially adult amateurs, returning riders, and those wanting a solid family or driving horse—this calm, reliable attitude is worth far more than spectacular movement. Groningens generally suit riders from novice-intermediate upward, as long as you’re comfortable with a horse that has some size and strength; they’re usually forgiving but can be a bit “heavy” if you’re used to hot, ultra-sensitive types.

Always ask sellers for registration papers if the horse is advertised as Groningen or Groningen-approved. Clarify breeding, age, training history, and any previous injuries or long layoffs. A pre-purchase exam is non-negotiable: these horses are generally sound, but their workmanlike build means you should pay special attention to joints, back, and hocks, especially if the horse has pulled a carriage or done heavy work. Back X-rays and hock views are a sensible investment if you’re paying in the higher range.

In terms of prices, young, unbacked or lightly handled Groningen youngsters might start around €2,000–€4,000 in Europe, depending on pedigree and quality. A well-started riding or driving horse with basic schooling and good temperament often sits in the €5,000–€9,000 range. Proven driving horses, well-schooled all-rounders, or breeding-quality mares and stallions can reach €10,000–€20,000, especially if they’ve shown or driven successfully in competitive sport or breed shows. Red flags when buying include inconsistent history (“has done everything” but with no proof), poor feet on a heavy frame, a sour or shut-down expression, or a horse that’s over-tight in the back and reluctant to move forward. Take your time, ride more than once if you can, and don’t let the “rare breed” label pressure you into rushing a decision.

Everything about selling Groningen

Most Groningen horses are bred by dedicated breeders in the Netherlands and neighboring countries, often on smaller stud farms that focus on preserving the type and temperament. You’ll also find private owners selling individual horses—typically all-round riding or driving horses—and some dealers who specialize in heavier warmbloods and driving types. As a seller, you’ll attract better buyers and better prices if your Groningen is correctly represented and well-prepared.

Before you list your Groningen for sale, make sure the basics are in order. Keep registration papers, ownership documents, and vaccination and deworming records up to date and organized. If the horse has been used for driving, have recent photos or short videos in harness as well as under saddle. Buyers looking for a Groningen often want to see that the horse is safe in traffic, sensible in a group, and comfortable in different environments, so filming a hack on the road or a low-key competition can add real value. A clean, well-groomed horse with tidy feet, a mane that’s been cared for (even if left long), and a clear demonstration of its manners on the ground will help you stand out in a crowded marketplace.

Pricing your Groningen depends on age, training, health, and how close to the “classic” type the horse is. A green but well-handled youngster might be realistically priced in the low thousands, while a versatile, well-schooled riding and driving horse with a proven record can justify mid to high four figures or even low five figures. If you’re selling into international markets—through online platforms, social media groups, or breed-focused websites—remember that transport costs will factor into buyers’ budgets, so be realistic. Seasonal timing helps too: leisure riders tend to shop more actively in spring and early summer, while driving enthusiasts often look ahead of the competition or show-driving season.

Buyers of Groningen horses usually come with clear expectations: they want honesty about temperament, no surprises in traffic, and a horse that matches its advert. Be transparent about any quirks or limitations; a straightforward explanation builds trust far more than glossing over issues. In your marketing, emphasize the practical strengths of the horse—reliability, comfortable gaits, experience in harness or under saddle, suitability for certain rider types or disciplines—rather than vague superlatives. Prepare your Groningen for sale by keeping it in regular work, maintaining a consistent routine, and ensuring it loads, ties, and behaves well for the farrier and vet. A horse that steps off the trailer, works quietly in a new arena, and stands relaxed while a potential buyer fusses around it is the one that sells quickly, at a fair price, and goes on to a good, long-term home.