Origin of the breed
The Icelandic horse is the only horse breed in Iceland. Horses where brought to Iceland by the settlers (Viking's) in the end of the 9th century (870 - 930). Each individual must have been carefully selected because of limited space on board the Viking boats. The breed has been isolated in the far North Atlantic and without any foreign genetic material introduction since the 9th century. For a thousand years the breed had to adapt to the environmental conditions in Iceland.
The Icelandic horse
The Icelandic horse masters five gaits: tölt, trot, pace, gallop and walk. Conformation may vary but a typical Icelandic horse is rectangular and compact in shape. Typical of the breed is a sloping croup, a long thick mane and tail, and a thick, protective coat in winter. The Icelandic horse is strong, enthusiastic and forward going and is suitable for leisure activities and pleasure riding as well as top-level competition. The horse still plays a practical role in the annual sheep and horse round-ups where farmers use horses to round up sheep and horses in the highlands.
Breeding the ideal Icelandic horse
General breeding goal:
- Healthy, fertile and durable horse - a robust Icelandic horse
- Colours - preserve all varieties of colours
- Size - a preferred range in height is 135 cm to 145 cm measured with a stick
The goal is to breed light - bodied horses with an emphasis on strength, flexibility and a muscular body. The conformation should give an optimal base for exceptional gaits and self-carriage and at the same time aim for the generally accepted aesthetic factors.
Riding abilities:
The goal is to breed a versatile five gaited horses. A willing, cheerful, confident and brave horse that pleases the rider, offering it's best with very little encouragement. With clear and supple gaits and high and ground covering movements. Impressive horse with great presence and that moves energetically in all gaits.
Riding abilities:
The goal is to breed a versatile five gaited horses. A willing, cheerful, confident and brave horse that pleases the rider, offering it's best with very little encouragement. With clear and supple gaits and high and ground covering movements. Impressive horse with great presence and that moves energetically in all gaits.
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Tölur uppfærðar: 6.9.2010 01:37:35
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