History of Icelandic Horses

One of the oldest and purest breeds of horses in the world!

 

   

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CurrentNews

He's Here!
Haukur fra Studlum is a beautiful, palamino, 5 gaited, first prize stallion imported from Iceland. He has finally arrived safe and sound in Yambuk on the 4th January 2010! Check out our news page for more info.
 

   

 

   

Events


TOLT CLINIC 20th - 21st February 2010. Come and experience the gait of the gods, TOLT. For more information and bookings see our News/Events/Clinics page.
 

   

 

 

   

Breed History and Characteristics

Breed History

Icelandic horses are one of the purest breeds of horses in the world, descended from the horses brought to Iceland by the Vikings. It is thought that the Vikings chose only their best horses to make the journey in the long boats to the new colonies.

riding into town - north icelandThe Icelandic horse has adapted perfectly to Iceland’s harsh environment. Its genetics have survived through volcanic eruptions, famine and plagues that ravaged the human and equine populations. Natural selection has played a huge part in shaping the horse as it is today.

The presence of horses in Iceland played an important role in the success of the settlement of the country. They remained the only form of land transport until the mid 1900’s, worked with farmers to cultivate land, delivered the post and freighted goods.

 

Icelanders take great pride in their horsemanship and breeding. Selective breeding programs in Iceland started around 1879. Many breeding shows and competitions are held throughout the year both in Iceland and abroad. FEIF, an international group of Icelandic horse enthusiasts governs the breeding standards of the Icelandic horse among its associated members. Worldfengur is an international database for Icelandic horses and only 100% purebred Icelandic horses can be registered. Horse trekking in Iceland is an extremely popular draw card for tourists.

Breed Characteristics

colts with wooly winter coatsThe Icelandic horse is usually 12 – 14 hh. They are strong and capable of carrying a fully grown man - all day! They are very good natured, and are bred as much for temperament as for their other attributes. Stocky, compact bodies with short strong limbs together with a thick fuzzy winter coat, makes them tough and weather resistant. They are sure footed, willing, naturally curious and generally very sensible and easily taught.

 

 

coloured horses grazing in IcelandBeing slow to mature the Icelandic horse is rarely put under saddle, or a mare bred until 4 years of age. However their lifespan and working life are long… many working until they are 25 – 30 years old and horses 35 – 40 years old are apparently quite common.

 

The Icelandics have a saying that a good horse has no colour. With breeding focus on other qualities natural colour variation of the breed has been retained. They come in most shades and combinations like blue dun, bay dun, palomino, skewbald, pinto, silver dapple, chestnut, bay etc. It is truly stunning to see a mixture of these coloured horses running as a herd.

 

 

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