FRISIAN HORSES.
DISCOVER THEIR ELEGANT WORLD.
The Frisian horse is a proud symbol of Friesland. Noble, graceful and powerful black horses. An elegant horse that is a unique combination of beauty and reliability. With its proud attitude, friendly character and eagerness to learn, it is very popular. Meet a loyal, energetic and willing worker. Meet the Frisian horse breed.
Open the curtains of your bedroom in our holiday home in Friesland and you will come face to face with these beautiful animals. And when you have a cup of coffee in the backyard, they often look at you curiously.
The history of the Frisian horse
Origin and development
The Frisian horse is one of the oldest horse breeds in Europe. As the name suggests, this graceful horse comes from the Dutch province of Friesland. This beautiful breed goes back more than 1000 years in history. Julius Caesar and the Roman historian Tacitus already mentioned the graceful horses. The Frisian horse therefore has a rich history.
Arabic and Andalusian influences
Later, the Frisian horse was crossed with Arabian and Andalusian thoroughbreds. This laid the foundation for the development of the modern Frisian. Today, you can clearly see the elegant lines of these thoroughbreds in the Frisian horse.
The Golden Age of the Frisian horse
The Golden Age in the Netherlands was also the Golden Age of the Frisian horse. In the seventeenth century, this beautiful breed flourished. Many works of art from that time show the greatness of the Frisian horse. The horse was often used as a carriage horse and trotter. But the horse was also known as a warhorse.
Status symbol
The Frisian horse became a real status symbol. Kings, nobles and wealthy citizens were only too happy to show off their elegant horses. The power and beauty of the Frisian horse came in handy.
The external features
The black pearl
The black pearl from Friesland stands out because of its beauty, elegance and strength. That is why the Frisian horse is popular in the region and very much loved. Not only the looks, but also the inner self makes the Frisian special. The combination of inner strength and outer beauty makes this horse unique.
Graceful silhouette and black color
The Frisian horse has a harmonious body with a luxurious, proud appearance. The head is noble with dark eyes and small, pointed ears. The neck is long and slightly arched, with a high set neck. The short, strong legs show a lot of action during movement. The coat of the Frisian horse is always jet black and shiny. Sometimes you see a reddish glow.
Long mane and noble appearance
Typical for the Frisian horse are the long, often wavy mane. The lush tail and heavy feathering on the legs are also noticeable. This is also called the generous feathering. The full mane and tail of the Frisian do require a lot of care. By taking good care of the horse, you prevent tangles, strands and accumulated dirt.
A warmblood horse
The Frisian horse is a warm-blooded breed. Warm-blooded breeds combine strength and endurance with liveliness and speed. They are therefore very versatile. Furthermore, they have a medium-heavy build, a good temperament and are very intelligent. Warm-blooded horses are therefore easy to train.
This makes them perfect for both amateur and professional riders, and their physical characteristics and mental acuity make them ideal for both sport and recreation.
Unlike other horse breeds, such as the heavier horse breeds, Frisian horses have a more elegant and athletic build.
The character traits of the Frisian horses
Friendly, lively and reliable
The Frisian horse is famous for its friendly, lively character. The horse is calm, has strong nerves, is always willing to work and is very reliable. With its strong nerves it remains calm in the most challenging situations. It is therefore a breed that learns quickly with good training.
In the Middle Ages, the breed was very popular because of its strength, strong build, endurance and graceful appearance. Especially in the northern parts of Europe, such as the Netherlands. The horses were perfect for knights with heavy armor. They were also excellent as war horses in the cavalry. Because of their temperament, reliability and courage in battle. In addition, they had a majestic appearance due to their graceful gait on ceremonial occasions.
Strong knight horses with character
Dressage
Frisian horses are ideal for recreational riding and outdoor rides due to their elevated gaits. They also excel in dressage due to their high knee action and reliable behavior. Their compact build and short back make them versatile. This makes them suitable for various riding disciplines.
Care and health
Nutrition and health
When feeding Frisians, you should consider that they have a lower energy requirement than other warm-blooded animals. However, you should ensure that they get enough minerals, vitamins and trace elements. This is important for a shiny coat and beautiful, wavy mane.
Pay close attention to the dosage of the concentrates. Too much can cause problems, too little causes shortages. So make sure you have a good balance.
A careful diet helps your Frisian horse to shine. Good care is reflected in the appearance and energy level. This way you can enjoy your beautiful Frisian to the fullest.
What should I pay attention to when caring for my horse?
The feathering on the legs of Frisian horses can sometimes cause mud fever. Therefore, brush and trim it regularly. The long mane and beautiful tail also require care. Regular maintenance keeps your horse healthy and beautiful. This ensures that the Frisian always looks and feels its best.
Training and use of Frisian horses
From carriage to riding horse
The Frisian horse is popular for driving and riding. The breed always achieves high scores there. Traditionally, it was used for the sjees, a two-wheeled farm cart. It also excels in dressage. It even has a talent for Grand Prix level. A versatile and impressive horse. A real black pearl in the horse world. Later on, we will go into more detail about the Frisian's achievements in sports.
Elegant dressage and show horses
The Frisian horse is an elegant appearance in the dressage ring and at shows. The horse is therefore extremely popular with horse lovers. For example, you often see Frisian horses in films and television series. Think of Ladyhawke, Eragon, The Mask of Zorro, Alexander, The Chronicles of Narnia, The Hunger Games and Game of Thrones.
Pedigree and naming
Studbook KFPS
The Royal Association of the Frisian Horse Studbook (KFPS) is the oldest horse studbook in the Netherlands. It was founded in 1879. Since then, the KFPS has been representing the interests of the Frisian horse. They ensure that this beautiful breed is preserved. But it doesn't stop there. The association also has a breeding program. This program helps to preserve and further refine the unique characteristics of the Frisian breed.
Preservation and promotion of the Frisian horse
The Royal Association 'Het Friesch Paarden Stamboek' works hard to preserve and promote the Frisian horse as a unique and valuable horse breed. They also organize many events and information so that the Frisian horse remains in the spotlight. Both in Friesland and far beyond. For example, there is an annual stallion inspection.
The inspection of a Frisian stallion is a highlight in their work. It is truly a party for every horse lover to attend. By inspecting every Frisian stallion, the horse remains healthy and strong generation after generation.
Naming of the Frisian horse
Most Frisian horses are given traditional Frisian names by their owners. The Frisian studbook values this enormously, without it being mandatory. Frisian stallions that perform well are often seen as models. They radiate power and elegance and are a tribute to their origins.
Frisian horse in sport
Dressage sport
Due to their high knee action and reliable behavior, the Frisian horse is very popular in dressage. There they perform excellently at international Grand Prix level. With their class and elegance they achieve high scores. That combination makes them really special in the sports world. A Frisian pride at world level.
Carriage driving
The Frisian horse is also very popular in driving sports due to its elegant appearance, eagerness to learn, strength and endurance. They often participate in competitions where they excel in pulling and agility.
The Frisian horses can be seen at national competitions such as the Frisian Driving Championship and at international events such as the World Championships Four-in-hand. Their calm but energetic character is ideal for precision and cooperation. And that is what you need in the driving sport.
Purchase and prices
Where can you buy a Frisian horse?
In the Netherlands you can still find many renowned stud farms. But also in other European countries the noble black Frisian horses are successfully bred. Both at home and abroad the horses grow up to be true beauties. A pride for every breeder and enthusiast.
A valuable investment
The price of a Frisian horse is relatively high. The exact price depends on the studbook, age, gender and upbringing. So do your research before you buy a Frisian horse. That way you won't be faced with any surprises. A Frisian horse is an investment, but definitely worth it. With the right preparation you will bring a beautiful asset into your home.
STUD FARMS
In Friesland there are many places where you can admire Frisian horses up close and learn about their origins and history. At some stud farms and stables you can see the horses up close and even take a ride in a Frisian carriage.
Stud farm Het Swarte Paert
34 minutes from Húns
Binnenwei 13A in Hemrik
0516-471717
https://swartepaert.nl/groepsspelen/
Stable De Noeste Hoeve
17 minutes from Húns
G Japiksweg 20 in Witmarsum
0517-532358
Typical for Friesland and Frisian culture
The black pearls are deeply intertwined with Frisian culture and history. For generations they have played an important role. Both in daily life and in folklore and traditions. Frisian horses are truly part of Friesland. They are a living legacy of a rich past. A true Frisian pride.
In the backyard of your holiday home in Friesland
Behind our holiday home is a meadow with Frisian horses. Plop down on the lounge sofa in the back garden and enjoy the horses looking back curiously.
Book your stay
Book your holiday in Friesland now. And contact us.