History:
The Norwegian Fjord Horse is one of the world’s oldest and purest breeds. It is believed that the original Fjord Horse migrated to Norway and was domesticated over 4,000 years ago. Herds of wild Fjord Horses existed in Norway after the last ice age. Archaeological excavations at Viking burial sites indicate that the Fjord Horse has been selectively bred for at least 2,000 years. Present day Fjord Horses retain the characteristics of the primitive wild horse of Asia, the Przewalski, from which it is believed to be descended.
Characteristics:
The charming, gentle disposition of the Fjord Horse is its most outstanding quality. They are hardy, long lived, agile, sure-footed, and willing. They love attention, are “people oriented”, and are happiest when they are working. They learn fast and have an amazing ability to retain what they have learned even after long periods of inactivity. Their cool temperament and graceful, balanced gaits both under saddle and in harness, make them the ideal family horse. They are used for schooling horses for the young or inexperienced rider, yet are large and powerful enough for adults to ride and enjoy.
One of their unique characteristics is that approximately 90% of all Fjord Horses are brown dun in color. The other 10% are either red dun, gray, pale dun, gold or yellow dun. The Fjord Horse retains the “wild” dun color of the original horse as well as the primitive markings which include zebra stripes on the legs and a dorsal stripe that runs from the forelock down the neck and back and into the tail. Dark stripes mayalso be seen over the withers. Red duns have reddish-brown stripes and body markings. Gray duns have black or very dark gray stripes and markings. The pale or white dun is a very light body color with black or gray stripe and markings. The yellow dun have a darker yellow stripe and markings, they may have a completely white forelock, mane and tail. The yellow dun is a very rare color in the breed. Another unique characteristic of the Fjord Horse is the mane. The center hair of the mane is dark (usually black) while the outer hair is white. The mane is cut short so it will stand erect. It is trimmed in a characteristic crescent shape to emphasize the graceful curve of the neck The white outer hair is then trimmed slightly shorter than the dark inner hair to display the dramatic dark stripe. The head and neck should present an appearance of elegance without coarseness. The head is medium sized and well defined with a broad, flat forehead and a straight or slightly dished face. The eyes are large. Ears are small and alert. The neck of the Fjord is well muscled and crested. The body is short coupled with good depth, large heart girth, and well developed muscles. The legs are powerful, with substantial bone and excellent feet which are black in color. The Fjord Horse ranges in height between 13.2 and 15 hands with most individuals measuring 14 – 14.2 hands and weighing between 900 and 1200 pounds.
Norwegian Fjord Horse Judging Standards:
Type:
The Fjord horse is known for gentleness of temperament, willingness to work, stamina, and vigor. Used for draft work, riding, and driving, individuals vary in size and weight according to use. Although there is no true distinction, references are often made to a “riding” versus a “draft” type of Fjord, depending upon the characteristics emphasized. Fjord horses give an impression of great power combined with beauty and grace.
Color:
Most Fjords are a dun color with a full dorsal stripe starting in the forelock, running through the mane, down the back and through the tail. Other colors are red dun (no dark dorsal stripe), grey dun, pale dun (cream) and rarely, yellow dun. Markings include dorsal stripe, horizontal stripes on legs, dark legs below the knee, and sometimes dark stripes across the withers
Weight:
900 – 1500 pounds HEIGHT 13 – 15 hands
Head:
The head is of medium size with a broad flat forehead and a straight or slightly concave profile. The eyes are large and dark with a gentle expression. The nostrils are large. The jowls are well rounded and strong. The ears are of small to medium size and set well apart.
Neck:
The neck is crested and well muscled with sufficient length and suppleness. The upright mane shows off the neck as a lovely crescent. The underside of the neck must be neat, well-defined, and present a smooth line. The neck blends into a deep chest and sloping shoulder.
Withers:
The Fjord has lower withers than many breeds. While defined, the withers are generally level and strongly muscled.
Body:
The Fjord horse has a compact body with a deep girth and well sprung ribs. The back is short to medium in length with a strong coupling. The loin is broad and strong. The croup is well muscled and well rounded to the tail.
Legs:
The legs should be straight, conformationally correct, and possess substantial bone. The bones are flat and clean, never course. The size of the bone is in proportion to the body type (i.e. a heavier canon bone on a larger, heavier Fjord) and the joints are appropriately large and well defined. Pasterns are sloping and of moderate length. Forearm and gaskin are well muscled, inside and out. Hooves are ample in size, dark, and strong with a wide heel.
Action:
The Fjord horse is known for its long, free, easy stride and its stylish, natural, balanced action.
Preferred Grooming Presentation:
- Forelock: long and full
- Mane: upright, clipped even or with 1/4 to 1/2 inch of black stripe standing above the white crest.
- Muzzle: hairs left long
- Eyes: hairs left long n Head: goat hairs may be clipped to define head
- Ears: “pony clipped” – not clipped out
- Legs and fetlocks: may be neatened, not clipped off or shaved
- Tail: long and full, may be banged Horse may be presented open or square.
The pictures and information contained on this page is provided courtesy of the Norwegian Fjord Horse Registry.
