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Norwegian Fjord
Equus ferus caballus
Norway's ancient dun pony-horse — a sturdy draft type with a striped mane cut to stand upright.
How to spot it
A compact, muscular horse of about 13.1 to 14.3 hands (135 to 150 cm), almost always dun with a dark dorsal stripe along the back. Its upright mane is traditionally trimmed in a crescent to show the dark centre against the pale sides.
Temperament
Calm, friendly and willing, with a steady, good-natured mind that suits families, children and nervous riders.
What it's bred for
One of the world's oldest breeds, worked by Norwegian farmers for centuries on steep hill farms. A strong light-draft type, it rides, drives, packs and works the land.
Care & upkeep
Extremely hardy and thrifty, built for a harsh northern climate — so it fattens easily on good feed and its grazing must be watched.
Health & lifespan
A robust, long-lived breed, commonly 25 to 30 years. The main risk is obesity and laminitis from overfeeding such an easy keeper.
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