The breed was nearly lost in the mid-20th century because a significant number of mares were used for crossbreeding to create the Dutch Warmblood, leaving few purebreds.

Although selection procedures had been in use for many years, the first Dutch horse registries weren't founded until the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The result of these exchanges was that at the turn of the century, the Groninger, East Friesian, Oldenburger, and Holsteiner were calm, substantial farm and carriage horses with primarily dark coats.

[4] A small group of interested breeders pooled their genetic resources – 20 mares and Baldewijn – and in 1982 formed a private association.

Alt-Oldenburg/East Friesian, Silesian, East-German, and Holsteiner horses of the appropriate type were used to re-establish the Groninger, as well as one Cleveland Bay stallion.

[4] In motion, the walk is diligent with a long stride, the trot is brisk and economical with some action, and the canter is of sufficient quality.

The canter was not of great importance to the breeders, who did not have need for a heavy galloping horse, and so this gait is not as strong or expressive as the trot.

[5] A small percentage are chestnut or grey, and there are strains known for the sabino or tobiano pattern though minimally-marked horses are favored.

They have found their modern niche as combined driving horses, a sport in which many, including the stallion Meinhold, compete internationally.