THE ICELANDIC HORSE

SMART - STOUT - SMOOTH - SPIRITED - SWEET

JHP_160922_Iceland_1459Icelandic Horse grazing in open field while herd sleeps.

Standing only an average of 13.2 hands high (52-56 inches from the ground to the withers and a pony by American standards) these robust equines have certainly earned a place in my heart with their BIG personalities! 

JHP_160911_Iceland_1289Icelandic Horse herd in Western Iceland

The Icelandic people have banned the import of ANY horse onto the island for over 1,030 years so inevitably the "original stock" that came with the Nordic people in the 9th century has developed its own set of characteristics that make the Icelandic Horse a special specimen.  They are a well proportioned horse that comes in a variety of colors with thick manes, tails and dense double northern coats.     

JHP_160922_Iceland_1467Icelandic Horse and much of the herd sleep long hours. Southern Iceland.

Unlike most other domestic and wild horses in the world the Icelandic Horse is void of natural predators and can be found spending long hours sleeping in the large, open fields and are always happy to come to the fence for some interaction.    

JHP_160925_Iceland_2267Icelandic Horse

In Iceland the resources are limited and the consumption of horse dates back to the beginning and is still practiced today as an inexpensive and traditional dish.  The culling of the naughty, dumb and unsound for human food, I was told, played a major role in the mentality and sturdiness of the breed; resulting in a horse that will rarely kick, bite or become unruly. 

JHP_160925_Iceland_2284Icelandic Horse moving through a field

They are gaited horses that have the typical walk, trot, canter and gallop; however, the TOLT is desired and most if not all should and will perform it in place of the bumpy trot.  The FLYING PACE is only found in some of the Icelandic horses and of those only a few are trained in it.   I had the wonderful pleasure of riding a nicely trained horse named Estey (spelling of this? pronounced "S-Tea" I believe) and as with any well trained animal you must know how to ask for the movement.  To my joy the horse went from a gentle follow the leader type to an animated, spirited and happy equine once he was put into frame and asked to work and I am certain he was happy to show me his dance moves! I highly recommend taking a riding tour with the very nice couple that operates Nupshestar. They did a very nice job on a 2 hour tour taking us across beautiful farm lands, through glinting rivers and even a "forest"!  (they even let me take some photos :-) )

JHP_160925_Iceland_2077Icelandic Horses. Foal tending to an itch while mare waits.

The Icelandic people are proud of their horses.  A national studbook talks of lineage and awards and can be found on coffee tables of many farms.  One of the main uses of the horses are as leisure riding mounts as well as to round up and move sheep between pens and the highlands.  Some are still used for draft work, although I saw little evidence of this while I was there.  Most are not started until age 4 and until that time are left alone as herd horses.   The locals say this helps with their spirited nature.

JHP_160925_Iceland_2084Icelandic Horse Tack   JHP_160925_Iceland_2085Icelandic Horse Saddle   JHP_160925_Iceland_2087-2Icelandic Horse Tack: Stirrup

Tack and dress: simple. No really, at least by my standards; however, I can certainly appreciate it! One size just about fits all. A snaffle bridle with drop nose band and an English saddle that melds dressage with saddle seat is placed, typically, without a pad.  An average rider will wear warm clothes with gloves, the traditional wool sweater and is often adorned in a full rain galosh as the weather can change without warning.

JHP_160925_Iceland_2248Icelandic Horse

I had a splendid time getting to know the breed and it's people.  In fact, it was a very nice way to find common ground and open communication with the local crowd.  These little-big horses have won over my heart and although I never in a million years thought I would ride a gaited breed I think there may need be room for one or two in my barn someday.  I hope those of you equestrians reading this, that have not yet met an Icelandic,  will someday get the opportunity.  

JHP_160925_Iceland_2123Icelandic Horses coming to greet me at the fence.

Links to information regarding the Icelandic Horse

Please visit the International Federation of Icelandic Horse Associations for more detailed information on international local involvement.

I recommend Nupshestar for a riding tour in the southwest of the country and along the golden circle route.

Clear Lake Farm in Ontario Canada, has a nice breed profile about the Icelandic Horse.

JHP_160913_Iceland_1564Icelandic Horse, Roadside Art. The bridle-less PACE :-)

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