Friesian Horses

The Friesian breed is one of the oldest domesticated breeds in Europe. It is native to the province of Friesland in the northern Netherlands. The Friesian suffered a decline in numbers with the increase of mechanization on the farm and in transportation. In fact, the number of Friesian stallions reputedly was reduced to only three prior to World War I. The breed was rejuvenated by introducing Oldenburg blood. In recent years the breed has attracted a great deal of acclaim and its future seems assured. The Friesian is used for light agricultural work. It is traditionally used in harness to quaint Friesian gigs. The Friesian is also found in circuses and in driving competitions.

Physical Description

One of the outstanding characteristics of the Friesian horse is its very long mane and tail. These are never cut and often reach the ground. The breed also has abundant feather and long leg hair reaching from the middle of the leg. The color is always black, and only a white star in the forehead is permissible. The head of the Friesian is carried quite high and the face is expressive. The neck is carried rather vertically and is low-set. The legs and Friesian quarters are muscular yet smooth. It stands at 15 hands and has an excellent disposition.

Origin

The Friesian is an old breed of horse dating from the Middle Ages. Its location of origin is Friesland in the northern Netherlands. The breed nearly died out before World War I and has since been revived as a fine carriage horse. The horse is now being exported to other countries and its popularity is growing.

Notes of Interest

It would be difficult to date the origin of the Friesian horse with precision. It is certain that the horse was well-known in the Middle Ages since it is found in art work of that period. In the 1600's it was adopted to carry heavy weight under saddle. Later, due to its splendid action at the trot, the Friesian was bred to be lighter in weight. This, unfortunately, limited its use in agriculture and led to its decline in the early 1900's. Systematic breeding has restored the breed's quality and its numbers are now increasing.

Breed Associations and Registries

Australia

Australian Friesian Horse Society
International Register
Australasian Warmblood Friesian Association Inc
P O Box 328
Unley
South Australia 5061
email: awfa@knfpub.com

South Africa

The Association of the Friesian Horse Studbook of Southern Africa
President: Mr. B. Smit
P.O. Box 91, Piketberg 7320, South Africa Phone/Fax: +27-216-32041
Secretariat: Mrs. K. Schimmel
P.O. Box 2, Laezonia 0026, South Africa Phone/Fax: + 27-12-6590101
Email: aadstoop@iafrica.com