Intro
The Frederiksborg Horse is the oldest pedigreed domestic animal breed in the world. They are also a living piece of Danish history in large part due to the Royal Frederiksborg Stud Farm & their strict quality standards.
Origins
The initial purpose for the royal breeding was a light riding horse and a more robust animal to pull the royal carriages. Initially, the breeding process was more natural and selected stallions were given small herds of mares to cover each year. However in 1660 an absolute monarchy was established at which point standards became even more rigorous & carriage teams were expected to match exactly in color, markings & size. Stallions were then more selectively bred in order to create matching teams, especially white which was considered the most distinguished color & used to pull the King’s coach.
The royal breeders created a breed that was wildly successful for a century & were known across Europe for their royal blood and noble build. The Frederiksborg bloodlines were also used to improve a number of other breeds. Sadly enough of them were exported that by the end of the 19th century their numbers became too small & the royal stud farm was closed.
In 1939 efforts to reestablish the breed began again, using Friesian & Oldenburg blood and later Arabian & Thoroughbred genetics were added. Today numbers are very low and the modern Frederiksborg maintains very little of the original blood, although the breed does still exist.
Features
Average height 15.1 – 16.1 hands
Physique
Head is well proportioned with straight or convex profile
Ears are pointed & mobile
Eyes are large & expressive
Neck is medium in length & slightly arched
Back is short & straight
Chest is high, full & deep
Legs are well muscled with strong, broad joints
Feet are small & tough
Traditional Colors
Always chestnut often with flaxen mane & tail.
Temperament
Lively & bright
Easy to work with & intelligent
Use
Coach horse
Riding horse
Helpful Links
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Frederiksborg Horse Breeder Association
Association of Frederiksborg Horse Breeders
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