Intro
Also called Franches Montagnes, Freiberger & Jura, the Freiberg horse is a light to middle sized warmblood that was developed in Switzerland around the end of the 19th century.
Origins
The breed began when local Jura mares were crossed with English Thoroughbred, Anglo-Norman, Breton, Belgian Draft & Arabian animals & they were one of the first light draft breeds developed in western Europe. The bloodlines were systematically crossbred until 1910, when selection narrowed to purebred animals only.
The Freiberg was instrumental to the Swiss during both of the World Wars & continued to serve the locals as transport animals & farm aids in steeply sloped areas. This underlying usefulness encouraged breeders to maintain strict quality control over bloodlines and to consistently breed to type. Over the years two different types of Freiberg emerged, a heavier, more muscular type for pulling carts & agriculture & a smaller, lighter type for riding.
Since the advent of the mechanized age, need for light draft animals has declined considerably so breeders have focused their efforts on perfecting the smaller, riding type of the breed.
Features
Average height 14.3 – 15.2 Hands
Physique
Head is noble & intelligent
Neck is well muscled & well placed
Chest is deep
Legs have good bone and well proportioned joints
Feet are well shaped & strong
Traditional Colors
Temperament
Honest & uncomplicated
Likes to learn
Surefooted & calm
Use
Eventing horse
Driving
Pleasure mount
Transportation
Military
Therapy animal
Helpful Links
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