Icelandic horses
Icelandic horse breeding
The breeding of Icelandic horses is strictly regulated so that they are not allowed to be crossed with other breeds. This makes them one of the most purebred horse breeds in the world. There are some special characteristics in Icelandic horse breeding. Farmers in Iceland specialize in breeding riding horses and select hard to promote certain characteristics. Particularly in the north of Iceland, more emphasis is placed on equestrian sports, and the horses from this region are often bred to be narrower and more elegant than those from the south.
The Icelandic horses are characterized by a variety of different coat colors, including foxes, blacks, bays, grays, duns, Isabella, earth-colored, smoky black and perlino/cremello. The breeding of Icelandic horses is strictly regulated in order to maintain their pure breed, and it is stipulated by law that once Icelandic horses have left the island, they are not allowed to return to Iceland.
There are restrictions and regulations for Icelandic horse breeding. According to the statutes of the IPZV eV (Icelandic Horse Riders and Breeders Association), an Icelandic horse is considered purebred if its ancestry can be traced back to the motherland of Iceland. There are also specifications and guidelines for breeding issues for Icelandic horses in Germany. Breeders value horses with strong characters with excellent riding and gait characteristics for sport, leisure and coaching.
Icelandic horses - origin and history
Icelandic horses have a fascinating origin and history. The first Icelandic horses came to Iceland with the Vikings between 860 and 935 AD. They were from them used as transport and workhorses and played an important role in the settlement of the island. They are known worldwide for their robustness, endurance and friendly nature.
Icelandic horses are known for their unique gaits, such as the tölt and the pace. The gait spectrum of Icelandic horses ranges from four-gaits to five-gaits. In addition to the basic gaits of walk, trot and canter, most Icelandic horses also master the tölt and the pace.
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