Fjord or Haflinger Anyone?

Alright, lets cover this quickly, shall we? There are two horses that come in a pony size, the Haflinger and the Fjord. They are both never, and I mean never referred to as a pony! Despite their size these horses are surprisingly devoid of the usual "small man syndrome" attitude that usually accompanies smaller animals... (and men...but that is a subject for another day....

Did I ever tell you I once dated a man with a particularly bad case of SMS? Nasty little fellow he was... tried to compensate by using Steroids... which we all know only makes a man smaller in the only area that really counts... sorry... plus the 'Roid rage didnt help matters at all)... Where was I? Oh, right, story for another day....Fjords... Haflingers... got it!

Haflingers and Fjords are both similar in build and type, though one comes in a trademark palomino type color and the other comes in every different shade of dun.

Both can pack a full size adult and are known as being unparalleled in temperament, soundness, dependability and hardiness. And really, what more can you ask for in a horse? Well, besides....

Speed... Who needs it! *waves hand dismissively* Forsooth! When did a fast horse ever get you anywhere but in more trouble at a higher rate of speed?

*blocking Browneyed Cowgirls from commenting*

No, they wont give you no 20 foot stop! But who needs to stop that big when you wont ever be goin' that fast anyways?

So what if they cant jump over 4 foot (actually some do!)... Most of these horses arent even four feet tall! Throw a little punk kid up on top and they cut a pretty cute picture in an English saddle...

Okay, so maybe I need a little different qualities in my horse but overall, for an all round recreational mount that the whole family can enjoy, these guys are the ticket. If you need a good solid, sane, and sound horse that has a kind personality, easy going attitude, and naturally unflappable disposition, either a Haflinger or Fjord will get the job done with a smile.

Of course the exception proves the rule. I am sure there are a few half crazed, spooky as all get-out, 3 legged Fjords kickin' around...but... in general, both these breeds rock. And I mean that in a good way...not like dumb as a rock (I have found a lot of really "quiet" horse are really just a little slow on the uptake, not the sharpest tools in the shed...ya know?) Anyways, *insert stoned out hippie voice* These guys, they like totally rock man!

Because I'm feeling a little lazy (and crazy, apparently) I am going to post a link to some info on both breeds along with a short description, ok-y-doe-kee? Hello? Anyone?

The Fjord- a short, squat, dun colored pony *gasp* that is so hardy it can even haul my fat ass over long distances....thats it... end of story....

just kidding...

The Norwegian Fjord was domesticated over FOUR THOUSAND years ago and selectively bred for over 2000!! (I guess that's about how long it takes us to selectively breed for a sound horse!)

The Breed Registry website states: (click for link)

- "The charming, gentle disposition of the Fjord Horse is its most outstanding quality. They are hardy, long lived, agile, sure-footed, and willing. They love attention, are "people oriented", and are happiest when they are working. They learn fast and have an amazing ability to retain what they have learned even after long periods of inactivity. Their cool temperament and graceful, balanced gaits both under saddle and in harness, make them the ideal family horse. They are used for schooling horses for the young or inexperienced rider, yet are large and powerful enough for adults to ride and enjoy."

While the Haflinger Registery states:

- "The specialty of the Haflinger lies, of course, in its unique golden chestnut coloring with a long, flowing white mane and tail. But more unique is the people-loving, willing and forgiving temperament that was established over centuries of living alongside and working with the mountain peasants, serving all purposes for all family members. Haflingers very simply became part of the family.

The modern Haflinger is now found all over the world, active in such varied disciplines as dressage, jumping, vaulting, packing, pleasure driving, CDE, western trail riding, CTE, endurance riding, draft work and therapeutic riding programs. Haflingers hold their own in competition with other breeds, often showing surprising athleticism and strength for their size.

The Haflinger continues to capture hearts and enrich lives as it has for over two centuries. Horse lovers desiring an equine companion that is safe, versatile, dependable, and beautiful have discovered the Haflinger. Intelligence, character, willingness, grace, stamina, athleticism, and long life make the Haflinger a wise choice for everyone."

I couldnt say it better! So I didnt. lol

Lets see a few in action, yah? *Swedish accent* Yah! Yaaahh!!

The reining Haflinger



The Fjord Dressage Horse...