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Introduction.

From its ancient past as a Viking war mount to its ever-increasing popularity with modern-day horse lovers, the Norwegian Fjord is a breed as distinctive for its history as it is for its appearance. In fact, the history of the Norwegian Fjord is intertwined with its unique look.

History.

Although initially bred by the Vikings as a war horse, as with so many ancient breeds the Fjord was also used for farming and general transportation purposes. For most of its history the Fjord has been selectively bred for durability, hardiness, stamina, and a kind, gentle nature. The legacy of these centuries of careful selection is a horse that is truly remarkable for its dependability, adaptability, and a calm, willing, friendly nature, all the while retaining its unique look.

Foundation.

Bearing an uncanny resemblance to horses painted on cave walls some 30,000 years ago, today’s Fjord shares many physical characteristics with the primitive wild horse of Asia called the Przewalski, especially in terms of coat color and overall hardiness. It is generally believed that the Fjord’s earliest ancestors migrated to the Scandinavian peninsula from Asia approximately 4,000 years ago, and were domesticated about 2000 BC.

Type.

The Fjord’s natural power and athleticism make it well-suited for a variety of equine endeavors, both under saddle and in harness. Its pleasant nature and calm, willing disposition have led to the Fjord being used extensively in riding schools and handicapped riding programs in many countries. This same wonderful disposition means the Fjord is an excellent choice for a family horse – gentle enough for even the most novice handler, yet with the power and athletic ability to suit the experienced horseperson.

Colors.

One of the most distinctive physical features of the Norwegian Fjord is its coat coloration. To the unpracticed eye, all Fjords may appear to be the same color, and in fact 90% are what is known as brown dun. However, red dun, gray, uls (white), and yellow dun are also recognized. Regardless of coat color, each Fjord displays what are known as the primitive markings, which include a dark midsection in the forelock, mane, and tail, a dark dorsal stripe (also known as an eel stripe), and dark horizontal stripes on the legs (zebra stripes), particularly the forelegs. At different times in the breed’s history, different colors have been more in favor than others, but today all five of these colors are given equal preference in the breed’s standards. On a related note, however, the only accepted white marking is a small star on the forehead.

The most common color, the brown dun, is basically pale yellow-brown, ranging from a cream yellow shade to nearly brown. The dorsal stripe and darker stripe of hair in the mane and tail are dark brown or black.

The red dun is pale red-yellow, ranging from lighter to darker shades. The dorsal stripe and darker stripe in the mane and tail are red or red-brown, never black. The mane, tail and forelock of horses with lighter shades may be completely white.

The gray comes in shades ranging from light silver to dark slate. The dorsal stripe and stripe in the mane and tail are lighter than the body color, and the forelock and muzzle are darker than those of the brown and red duns.

The uls, or white dun, appears white or yellow-white. The dorsal stripe and stripe in the mane and tail are black or gray.

The yellow dun, the most rare color, is yellow-white. The dorsal stripe and stripe in the mane and tail are a darker yellow than the body color. The mane and tail may be completely white on a yellow dun, and the dorsal stripe may be quite faint.