Intro
Also called Fjord Horse, Norwegian Dun, Norwegian Pony, West Norway, West Norwegian, Westland & Northern Dun, the Norwegian Fjord is an ancient breed & one that retains many of it’s original characteristics.
Origins
They come from Viking animals that were used as war mounts and for farm work. In fact, the Vikings were the first western European people to use the horse for agricultural work & their subsequent invasions of other areas helped to spread the practice. Most draft breeds of western Europe are thought to carry the blood of the Fjord horse.
Interestingly enough, their colors used to vary and it wasn’t until the end of the 19th century that all crossbreeding stopped and a breed standard was formed & the bloodlines kept pure. Today this breed is one of the only domesticated breeds that is always dun and always displays primitive dun markings.
Features
Average height 13 – 14.1 hands
Physique
Head is well-proportioned with a concave profile
Eyes are large & kind
Neck is short & muscular
Back can be slightly hollow
Mane is coarse and stands straight up for a few inches
Hindquarters are round and muscular
Legs are sturdy & short with light feathering at fetlocks
Hooves are black, hard & shapely
Traditional Colors
Always dun with primitive markings.
Temperament
Exceptionally mellow
Trustworthy & wise
Use
Light agriculture
Farm horse
Pleasure mount
Show horse
Helpful Links
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Norwegian Fjord Horse Registry
Fjord National Studbook of Great Britain
Canadian Fjord Horse Association
Where to Buy
Norwegian Fjord Studs
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