Norwegian Fjord

Norway's oldest breed of horse, the Norwegian Fjord has been selectively bred within Norway for over 2,000 years.

Vikings used Norwegian Fjord horses during wars and they are thought to be the first horses used for farming in western Europe.  Many believe that the present draft style horses in Western Europe have all descended from Norwegian Fjord horses.

Norwegian government controls all horse breeding in Norway and only champion stocks can be exported.  There are registries for Norwegian Fjord in Canada, the United States, Britain, Netherlands, Denmark, Germany and Sweden. 

Distinguishing characteristics of the Norwegian Fjord include their dependability and calm and gentle temperatments.  They don't requir restraining and will stay in the pastures they are put in.  Easy to break and never require retraining even if they are rarely used.

Most horses of the Norwegian Fjord breed are dun-colored and look quite identical.  All have dark dorsal stripes and stand about 13-14 hands tall.

Norwegian Fjord can use saddles or harnesses, can be ridden both English and Western, used for hunting, parades or driven in shows.  They are great family horses.