Icelandic Horse

Looks how to spot one

Double coat

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

Personality what they are like

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

How many 3000007