Intro
The North Swedish Horse is a relatively new breed, it’s bloodlines only being about a 100 years old. They come from the same genetics as the Dole horse which comes from the ancient Scandinavian horse.
Origins
For the most part this breed has been kept relatively pure in Sweden, although early in the 19th century some crosses were made with other animals (including Friesian). For a long time the breeding was mostly carried out in the county of Norrland, however it has been expanded in more recent years, but is still highly controlled & systematic to preserve the bloodlines.
In 1909 the studbook was established and by 1924 the North Swedish Association had been developed as well with the intention of establishing standards & progressing the breed. In 1949 a Country Horse Day fair was arranged as an annual event to sets stallions & mares for registration.
There are two types found within the breed, the draft & the trotter.
Features
Average height 15 – 15.3 hands
Physique
Head is average in size but can be heavy with a straight profile
Neck is short & muscular
Back is long & wide
Chest is deep & wide
Legs are short & strong with broad joints and feathering at the fetlocks
Hooves are broad, round & strong
Traditional Colors
All colors
Temperament
Even-tempered and courageous
Use
Forestry
Agriculture
Draft
Helpful Links
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The North Swedish Horse
The Scandinavian Horse