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The Norwegian Fjord Horse
One of the worlds oldest and purest breeds.
It is believed that the original Fjord Horse migrated to Norway and was domesticated over 4,000 years ago.
There is indication that the Fjord has been selectively bred for at least 2,000 years.
 Disposition: The charming, gentle disposition of the Fjord Horse is its most outstanding quality. They are hardy, long lived, agile, sure-footed, and willing. They love attention, are people oriented and enjoy working. They are
quick learners, and retain their training well, even after periods of non use. Their easy going temperament and versatility make them the ideal family horse. Equally at home in harness or under saddle, they make excellent schooling horses for young or novice riders, but are powerful enough for adults to enjoy.
Color and Markings: One of their unique characteristics is that approximately 90% of Fjord Horses are brown dun in color. The other 10% are red dun, gray dun, pale dun, gold or yellow dun. The
modern day Fjord Horse retains the primitive dun markings of the original horse which includes a dorsal stripe, zebra striping on legs, and may include
dark striping on the neck, back and withers. Red duns have reddish-brown stripes and markings. Gray duns have black or very dark gray stripes and markings. Pale or white duns have very light body color with black or gray stripe and markings. The rare yellow dun has a darker yellow stripe and markings and a completely white mane and tail.
Another unique characteristic of the Fjord is the mane. The center hair of the mane is dark (usually black) while the outer hair is white. The mane is cut short so it will stand erect. It is trimmed in a characteristic crescent shape to emphasize the graceful curve of the neck. The white outer hair is trimmed
slightly shorter than the dark inner hair to display the dramatic dark stripe.
Conformation: The mature Fjord horse ranges in size from 13.2 to 15 hands, with most individuals measuring between 14
and 14.2 hands and weighing between 900 and 1200 lbs. The ideal Fjord Horse
has an
appearance of elegance without coarseness. The head is medium sized and well defined with a broad, flat forehead and straight or slightly dished face. The eyes are large and expressive,
and the ears are small and alert. The neck of the Fjord is well muscled and crested. The body is short, coupled with good depth, large heart girth and well developed muscles. The legs are powerful, with substantial bone and excellent feet.
 Versatility: Traditionally, the Fjord has been used on the farm, handling timber as well as being used as a packhorse. His surefootedness and adaptability
proved to be a great advantage in the rugged country of the West. In later years the Fjord
became a popular leisure and family horse. The modern Fjord Horse is bred for both riding and driving.
They are capable of performing well in driving and endurance riding, and can perform adequately in elementary
dressage and jumping. Fjords also perform well in English and Western Pleasure classes, trail, reining, light and heavy harness, combined driving events, weight pulling, horse logging, farm work and packing.
The Fjord's gentle temperament and willingness
to work, found in no other breed, truly provides the ideal horse
for the whole family. The Fjord is capable of doing
everything from driving in harness to pleasure riding to being
your BEST FRIEND! |
