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Friesian Horse
by Rachel Johnson |
The Beauty of a Friesian Horse
The Friesian horse is one of the oldest equine breeds, native to Friesland, in the Netherlands. The Friesian horse is a mass of powerful muscles and beautiful black coat, although he has a gentle and friendly disposition that seems to be the opposite of his appearance. Experts have suggested that the Equss robustus was the prehistoric ancestor of today’s Friesian Horse.
Monks were known for their breeding of horses in the middle ages, and it’s thought that they crossed the Equus robustus with other horse breeds, resulting in the Friesian variety similar to what we know today. The Friesian horse is known for its incredible strength and dexterity, as well as a very kind and agreeable temperament.
Among the first to notice the powerful Friesian were the Romans, who worked the horse. The horses were often used over the ages for traveling as their endurance, strength, and docile nature proved useful in long travels. The Friesian didn’t start out beautiful, yet its mixing with other horses through the ages brought forth a very stunning breed, which was then used to improve other breeds. The Friesian horse has influenced the Oldenburn, New Forest, Dale, Fell Ponies, Morgan Horse, Standardbred, Orloy, Trotter, Swedish Warmblood, Kladruber, and the Norwegian Dole Gudbrandsdal breeds.
Today’s Friesian Horse is always black with a long flowing main and tail. The Friesian has a noble head, bright eyes, small ears, long ribs and a strong back, and a smooth gait. His actions are usually quite showy, yet he can be ridden, driven, likes working the land, performing in the circus, or jumping. The Friesian horse is truly one of the most versatile breeds in the world.
The Friesian horse is used all around the world, coming along way from its original job of pulling a two-wheeled carriage. These days, the Friesian is often seen performing in a show or circus. Their beauty coupled with their willing disposition is a delight for any trainer, which is why they are the most desirable breed for any sort of show or stage work.
Even though the Friesian can be found just about anywhere in the world, the Friesian is still bred mainly in Friesland, and its popularity continues to grow every year.
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