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The Friesian horse is a breed of horse from Friesland, a province of the Netherlands. Although originally bred as a draft horse, the breed is graceful and nimble for its size and later developed into a finer-boned nobleman's steed. During the Middle Ages, Friesian horses were in great demand as destriers throughout Europe since their size enabled them to carry a knight in full armour. After a few close calls with breed extinction, the impressive Friesian horse is now growing in numbers and popularity, proving to excel in both dressage and driving. The Friesian is probably best known for its black color and luxurious mane, tail, and 'feathered' (untrimmed) hooves. The official breed rarely has white markings of any kind, because registries allow only a small star on the forehead for purebred conformance. The Friesian's average height is about 15.3 hands (1.60 m), although it may vary from 14.2 to more than 16 hands (between 1.5 m and 1.7 m) tall at the withers, and mares must be at least 15.5 hands tall to qualify for its special 'star-designation' pedigree. It has a spectacular trot, both fast and high-stepping. The Friesian is very willing, active, and energetic but gentle, sometimes docile. A Friesian tends to have great presence and to carry itself very proudly. The breed has excellent overall conformation. Friesians have long, elegant, arched necks and fine extended short-eared (Spanish type) heads. Their sloping shoulders are quite powerful. They have compact yet muscular bodies with strong sloping hindquarters and a low-set tail. Their limbs are comparatively short and strong. Like fashion models, Friesians have good bone structure and impressive hair. |
