The Icelandic horse is described as a rather small, sturdy and hardy, but not light in build and thus often lacking in elegance. But the strong characteristics of the breed are said to be the versatility in riding performance, lively temperament and strong but workable character. Traditionally the Icelandic horse has been raised free range or in a herd which no doubt is part of the reason for these strong characteristics. The average height is between 13 and 14 hands with an average weight of between 330 and 380 kg. All colors are found except appaloosa marking, with the most common being chestnut. All white markings are acceptable and there are pinto in all of the base colors. The horses have long, thick manes and tails and the winter coat is double. The appearance of the Icelandic horse in countries outside of Iceland has changed somewhat due to upgrading programs used during the 1950's.

Although traditionally the Icelandic horse was raised free range this is no longer the case. During the 1900's the breeding and rearing of Icelandic horses has changed and is now very similar to horse breeding found throughout Europe and North America.

In Iceland, although breeding of riding horses is the main objective, meat production is going on as well, even though no special consideration has been given to that aspect as far as breeding is concerned. The meat was once a very valuable commodity but has declined somewhat due to increased competition and decreased popularity. Much of the meat is now exported to Japan.

In addition to the standard walk, trot and canter, the Icelandic horse has tolt, a “running walk” similar to the gait found in the American Saddlebred, Paso Fino and Tennessee Walker. Some are also bred for a special "flying pace" which is a very fast lateral gait used for racing short distances. Some horses can reach almost 30 miles an hour using this pace.

(Above provided by Oklahoma State University--Breeds Information)

In addition to its purity and hardiness, the Icelandic Horse possesses unique characteristics that have contributed to its increasing popularity in the United States. These include conformation, gaits, and character. Icelandic Horses usually stand between 13 and 14 hands. By U.S. standards, this technically classifies Icelandics as ponies, but they are very unlike our typical ponies. For instance, adults ride Icelandic Horses, but they usually do not ride U.S. pony breeds. Also, Icelandic Horses can out perform many horses of 15 and 16 hands in carrying, pulling, stamina, and longevity. To the Icelandic people, it is considered an insult to refer to their horses as ponies.

The Icelandic Horse is somewhat rectangular and well-proportioned. The head is clean cut and expressive, the neck supple and well set, so that the horse carries itself well-balanced when ridden. The shoulder should be comparatively long and well angled, the back flexible, and the croup sloping, wide, and well-muscled. The horse must give an impression of courage and power, with a proud and attentive expression, especially when ridden. They possess a full, thick mane, tail, and forelock. Icelandic Horses are slow to mature and are known for their longevity, with horses living to 35-40 not uncommon. They should not be ridden until age 4, but it is not unusual to ride them up to age 30. Broodmares can also be bred at age 4 and often produce foals well into their late 20's. Births are usually easy and it is best to raise foals free on pasture and rough ground to preserve their natural spirit and vigor. Icelandic Horses are not usually bred for color and come in 42 color combinations including chestnut, bay, black, palomino, buckskin, gray, pinto, silver dapple, and blue dun. This fact is very appealing to many potential buyers because they have the opportunity to buy their ideal horse in their favorite color.

The Icelandic Horse is patient, adaptable, uncomplicated, and sometimes very spirited. It has a friendly personality and a special affinity for people. Due to its breeding as riding and working horse for Icelandic farmers, it makes an excellent family horse. The Icelandic Horse is bred for use, not show. Highest priority is given to its rideability with emphasis placed on its being courageous, resourceful, cooperative, willing, with good forward action.*

A common theme among those that own these horses is that they feel such a bond with the animal and how important their wonderful personalities are to them as owners. It is the everyday experience of owning Icelandic Horses; to walk among a herd of mares and foals who have minimal human contact and have them crowd around you in curiosity with no acts of aggression normally present with many other breeds. There is no nipping, no kicking, no negative response to people*, just an interest in them. Further appreciation comes from the ride on an Icelandic Horse; to experience the smooth glide of the tolt, to feel totally safe as your mount confidently picks his way down a steep, rocky hill, and the feeling that these horses want to please and will wait patiently for your commands.

To conclude, the preceding has presented the facts about the Icelandic Horse and its origin. But, to interview Icelandic Horse owners and breeders, to visit a farm, and to ride these horses moves the appreciation of this breed to another level.

Written by Lisa Cissell . Bibliography found here: http://www.nmia.com/~hbailey/icehist.htm.

*Note from the webmaster: Please realize that these are generalities and every breed has some "problem" horses.

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