From Iceland, descended from horses brought by Norse settlers between 874 and 930 AD. The breed has been isolated on Iceland for over 1000 years with no genetic input from other breeds.12
A friendly guide, not veterinary advice. For anything about your pet's health, ask your vet.
The Icelandic horse has a thick double coat that provides excellent insulation in cold weather. In summer the coat is fine and shiny, while in winter it grows long and dense with three distinct layers. The mane and tail are full and coarse, and the tail is set low. The body is stocky with a deep chest, short muscular neck, broad low withers, and strong short legs.36
Icelandic horses are known for being friendly, adventurous, intelligent and quick to learn. They are generally very easy to handle, with a good temperament and a great willingness to work. They try to please the rider and are sensible, confident and brave.14
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Icelandic horses need regular exercise and thrive on being ridden. They are versatile and enjoy leisure riding, trail riding, long distance riding and various competitions including gait competitions. They are bred to carry adult riders and remain active well into old age.14
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Regular grooming is needed to keep the thick coat and mane healthy, especially during shedding seasons. Hoof care, dental checks and deworming should follow standard horse care routines. Because Iceland is free of many equine diseases, horses that leave Iceland cannot return, and imported equipment must be disinfected.7
Home where they are happiest
Icelandic horses are hardy and adapt well to cold climates thanks to their double coat. They need shelter from extreme weather, access to clean water, and safe fencing. They can live in various climates around the world, from cold regions to warmer areas like Australia and Hawaii.7
Food basics what goes in the bowl
As an easy keeper breed, Icelandic horses generally thrive on good quality hay or pasture with access to minerals. Their diet should be managed to prevent obesity, as they are efficient at converting feed. Fresh water must always be available.3
Company who they like around
Icelandic horses are social animals and should be kept with other horses or equines whenever possible. They form strong bonds and benefit from companionship. They are suitable for both adults and children due to their sensible nature.41
The story where it all began
The Icelandic horse breed traces its roots to horses brought to Iceland by Norse settlers between 874 and 930 AD. For over a thousand years the breed has been isolated on the island with no introduction of foreign blood, making it one of the purest horse breeds in the world. Horses were essential for transport and farming in Iceland, so breeding focused on strength, endurance, good temperament and smooth gaits. Since 1882, import of horses to Iceland has been forbidden by law to protect the breed's purity and health. Today Icelandic horses are popular worldwide for leisure riding and competition, with over 300,000 registered globally.125
Recognised by the official bits
FEIF (International Federation of Icelandic Horse Associations)
Maintains the WorldFengur database and sets breeding standards for the breed worldwide.1
A baked treat recipe from Rutgers Equine Science Center, using safe ingredients like pumpkin and oats. Suitable for horses, not for ponies or donkeys due to sugar content.
You need
4 cups whole oats (or crushed/rolled barley if your horse is sugar-sensitive)
1 can pumpkin (plain, not pie filling)
2 cups water
2 tsp baking powder
1 ¾ cups flour
2 tsp cinnamon
How
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the pumpkin and water together.
Add the dry ingredients (oats, flour, baking powder, cinnamon) to the pumpkin mixture and stir until combined.
Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a greased cookie sheet.
Optional: add a sugar-free peppermint topping to some treats if your horse can have them.
Bake for 20 minutes.
Allow to cool completely before feeding.
How much: 1-2 treats per day, depending on your horse's size and dietary needs. Always introduce new treats gradually.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise.
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Icelandic Horse, and what should it eat?
Icelandic horses are easy keepers and generally thrive on good quality hay or pasture with access to minerals. Their diet should be managed to prevent obesity, as they are efficient at converting feed. Fresh water must always be available. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.3Furry Diary plan
Which foods and plants are dangerous for an Icelandic Horse?
Many common foods are dangerous for horses, including chocolate, caffeine, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol. Also avoid alcohol, yeast dough, avocado, citrus, and macadamia nuts. Always keep your horse away from these items and consult your vet if you suspect ingestion.8
How much space and land does an Icelandic Horse need?
Icelandic horses need safe fencing and enough space for regular exercise and turnout. They thrive on being ridden and enjoy leisure riding, trail riding, and competitions. For specific land requirements, ask a good breeder or your vet.14Furry Diary plan
What kind of shelter does an Icelandic Horse need?
They are hardy and adapt well to cold climates thanks to their double coat, but they need shelter from extreme weather. Access to clean water and safe fencing is also essential. Furry Diary's starting plan includes daily turnout and fresh water.7Furry Diary plan
How do I look after an Icelandic Horse's hooves or feet?
Hoof care should follow standard horse routines, including daily hoof picking and regular farrier visits every six weeks. Furry Diary's plan suggests hoof picking daily and farrier care every 42 days. Always consult your farrier or vet for specific needs.7Furry Diary plan
Does an Icelandic Horse need grooming or shearing?
Regular grooming is needed to keep the thick coat and mane healthy, especially during shedding seasons. They have a double coat that provides insulation, so shearing is not typically required. Furry Diary's plan includes daily grooming as part of care.7Furry Diary plan
Can an Icelandic Horse live alone?
Icelandic horses are social animals and should be kept with other horses or equines whenever possible. They form strong bonds and benefit from companionship. It is not recommended to keep them alone.41
How long does an Icelandic Horse live?
Icelandic horses typically live between 25 and 30 years. With good care, they remain active well into old age.6
Is an Icelandic Horse good with children?
Yes, Icelandic horses are known for being friendly, sensible, and confident, making them suitable for both adults and children. They have a good temperament and are easy to handle.14
What regular vet care does an Icelandic Horse need?
Standard horse care includes dental checks once a year, deworming as your vet recommends, and regular hoof care. Furry Diary's plan suggests annual teeth checks and parasite prevention per vet advice. Always follow your vet's guidance.7Furry Diary plan
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Furry Diary's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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feif.org: the icelandic horsefeif.orgused for origin, best traits, temperament, activity needs, social needs, history, fun fact
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