In this article, we want to focus on a fascinating breed of horse: the robust and charismatic Icelandic horse, also affectionately known simply as “Icelanders.”
Its roots lie in the rough and rugged landscapes of Iceland.
Known for their unique gaits and diverse colors, every Icelandic horse is a true feast for the eyes and a versatile, loyal companion.
With their medium size and powerful build, Icelandic horses are an excellent choice for riders of all ages.
Let's learn more about the fascinating characteristics and versatility of this charismatic horse breed!
Profile: These are the special characteristics of Icelandic horses
Before we take a closer look at the special features of Icelandic horses, let's take a look at the profile of this breed:
Icelandic horse profile
Breed: Icelandic horse
Group: Small horses
Icelandic horse height: 130 – 150 cm
Weight: 300 – 380 kg
Body type: strong and compact, dense coat and thick mane
Life expectancy: 25 to 40 years
Coat color: all color variations, except tiger-spotted
Character: frugal, friendly, self-confident, lively, good-natured
Gait: energetic, sure-footed, elastic
Type: Warmblood
Origin: Iceland
Distribution: mainly in Europe and North America
Suitable for: Leisure and trail riding, show riding, tournament sports, as well as working and pack horse
With this overview in mind, we can study the fascinating characteristics and versatility of Icelandic horses in even more detail.
Is the Icelandic horse a pony?
Although Icelandic horses, often called “Icelandic ponies,” with a height of between 1.30 and 1.50 meters , would generally fall into the category of ponies , Icelanders in particular emphasize that the Icelandic pony fully deserves the title “horse” due to its genetic constitution, intelligence, and strength.
Their robustness, strength and versatility clearly distinguish them from typical ponies , and so they are generally recognized as fully-fledged riding horses that are excellent for both adults and children .
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Order nowThe diversity of nature and character
Icelandic horses are characterized by a diverse and fearless character . They are willing to perform, reliable, and possess a natural curiosity.
The Icelandic horse's character is also characterized by high intelligence and a remarkable ability to learn, which makes them ideal companions for various equestrian disciplines.
Physical characteristics: shape and structure of Icelandic horses
The Icelandic horse's physical appearance is as impressive as it is diverse. Standing between 130 and 150 cm tall and with a powerful build, they are true powerhouses.
Their lush mane, distinctive head and friendly eyes are characteristic features that characterize the Icelandic horse's appearance.
These are the diverse talents of Icelanders
Icelandic horses are known for their versatility and unique gaits, especially the tölt and the pace. These talents make them excellent leisure and competition horses .
Their fearlessness and surefootedness also make them ideal for cross-country riding and trail riding.
What tasks are Icelandic horses used for?
Icelandic horses are true all-rounders. They are used not only for recreational riding and competitive riding, but also as therapy horses .
Their calm and balanced nature, combined with their ability to learn, makes them ideal partners for therapeutic purposes and diverse educational work.
Proud age: This is how old Icelanders get!
Icelandic horses are known for their robustness and longevity . It is not uncommon for an Icelandic horse to reach the age of 30 or more.
The question " How old do Icelandic horses live? " can therefore, barring health issues, be answered with " Very old! " Of course, this always assumes that they receive proper care, training, and nutrition.
The oldest Icelandic horse in the world is a proud 57 years old.
The origin and history at a glance
The history of Icelandic horses goes back over a thousand years, as they were brought to Iceland by the Vikings in the 9th and 10th centuries .
The robust horses have since played a crucial role in the development of Icelandic society and have been used for transport, agriculture and communication .
To preserve their unique characteristics and the purity of the breed, they are now bred according to strict breeding standards .
The current distribution of Icelandic horses
Icelandic horses are now widespread far beyond the borders of Iceland.
They have gained worldwide recognition due to their uniqueness and versatility, and there are breeding and riding communities in many parts of Europe and North America .
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Tölt & Pass: The special gaits of the ancient horses
Icelandic horses are particularly known for their unique gaits , which distinguish them from other horse breeds.
The special gaits of tölt and racing pace are characteristic of the Icelandic ponies and make riding an Icelandic horse an incomparable experience.
Tölt
Tölt is one of the Icelandic pony's special gaits . It is characterized by a flowing and smooth movement.
This four-legged gait is particularly comfortable for the rider and allows for rapid progress without strong up and down movements .
Racing pass
Racing pace is another special gait of the Icelandic horse , one that is particularly fast and exciting. This two-legged gait allows speeds of up to 50 km/h and is used primarily in races and competitions.
Proper care and maintenance: What you should keep in mind
Keeping Icelandic horses requires special attention and care to ensure their health and well-being.
Icelandic horses are robust and adaptable , but they should still have sufficient protection from extreme weather conditions and access to clean water and high-quality feed.
Regular care, sufficient exercise and veterinary check-ups are also essential for keeping Icelandic horses.
Are Icelandic horses prone to disease?
Although Icelandic horses are known for their robustness, like any horse breed, they can be susceptible to certain diseases .
Keeping a watchful eye out for possible signs of illness and taking preventative measures are key to ensuring your horse's well-being.
So, don't forget: regular check-ups at the vet and the necessary vaccinations are a must so that your Icelandic horse can stay fit and vital .
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Sweet itch is an allergic reaction that can occur in Icelandic horses and is triggered by insect bites.
It leads to itching, skin inflammation, and hair loss , which can be very unpleasant for the horse. Targeted care is important to alleviate the discomfort and support skin health.
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Pferdegold Skin & Coat can therefore help to harmonize your horse's skin health and promote well-being.
3 interesting facts about Icelandic ponies
Icelandic ponies are not only fascinating because of their unique gaits and their robustness , but also because of some amazing facts.
Let's take a look at three interesting features of this horse breed!
1. Icelandic is the only horse breed for which a World Championship is held
Did you know that Icelandic horses are the only horse breed that has its own world championship?
This event highlights the popularity and uniqueness of the breed and attracts participants and spectators from all over the world. It is a testament to the recognition and status these horses enjoy in the equestrian community.
2. The small horses are not fully grown until they are seven years old
Unlike many other horse breeds, Icelandic ponies are not fully grown until they are about seven years old .
This means that they have a longer youth phase and thus reach their full maturity and performance later.
3. Once Icelandic ponies are off the island, they are no longer allowed to return to their homeland
It may sound unbelievable, but it is a fact: once Icelandic ponies leave Iceland, they are not allowed to return .
This regulation serves to protect the horses living on the island from disease and to preserve the genetic purity of the breed. It demonstrates how seriously Icelanders take the protection and preservation of their national horse breed .
Meaning of the name: This is what lies behind the name
The name "Icelandic," as you might guess, is derived from their homeland, Iceland . These horses are a symbol of Icelandic culture and history and therefore proudly bear the name of their home island.
The term “Iceland” itself comes from Old Norse and means “ice land” , which refers to the harsh and often cold climate of the island.
The name represents not only the geographical origin, but also the resilience and adaptability of this special horse breed to the challenging conditions of its homeland.
Conclusion
Icelandic horses, also known as Icelanders, are true treasures of the horse world. With their impressive versatility, unique gaits such as the pace and tölt, and their unparalleled robustness, they have captured the hearts of riders around the globe.
Their captivating story and intimate connection to their picturesque homeland of Iceland give them an extraordinary aura and have created a passionate fan base.
These horses are not only proud symbols of Icelandic culture, but also loyal companions capable of forming deep and unbreakable bonds with their humans.
Whether you are an experienced rider or just beginning your riding career, an Icelandic horse could be just the four-legged companion you are looking for.
FAQ
Are Icelandic horses suitable for beginners?
Yes, Icelandic horses are often well suited for beginners due to their friendly and balanced nature.
Riding an Icelandic horse can be a wonderful way to discover and experience the joy of riding.
How much does an Icelandic horse cost?
No price range can be given here, as the cost of an Icelandic horse can vary depending on factors such as age, education, health, and ancestry.
It is advisable to do your research thoroughly and explore different options to find the right horse for your needs and budget.
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