Friesian horse breed

The Friesian breed (or frieze) is one of the most beautiful draft horse breeds today.

Due to its multi-purpose properties and friendly character, friezes are very popular all over the world.

We invite you to learn more about these amazing exotic animals.

Historical data

Friesian breed bred in the province of Friesland in the north of the Netherlands. The forefathers of the frieze were the Spanish horses and local heavy "cold-blooded" breed. Friezes twice in history were on the verge of extinction, but thanks to the efforts of the Dutch horse breeders horses were saved. The first mention of the Frisian horses goes back to XIII century. The Roman historian Tacitus portrayed the first representatives of the breed as strong universal, but not very attractive horses.

In the Middle Ages (during campaigns and wars), these horses were used in battles. From the historical sources that have come down to us, it is known that the European knights used these horses for their crusades. During the period of trekking to the East, the animals crossed with eastern varietiesthat had a positive effect on their characteristics.

With the collapse of the Roman Empire, the deeper introduction of the Friesian breed into the territory of Norway and England began. Here horses were used for breeding purposes to improve the characteristics of local species. As a result, such modern breeds as the English Fellian and Dale ponies, as well as the Norwegian Gudbrandsdal, in their properties resemble mini-friezes. The 17th century played a significant role in the formation of the breed. To improve the appearance, Berber and Andalusian horses were used. Thanks to the Andalusian influence, the current friezes have found their majesty.

At the same time, the use of friezes in the role of war horses. Increasingly, this breed was used as a carriage horse. In the Baroque era, the Frisian horse was actively used as a parade horse at the royal courts. In the 18th century, the species was used for breeding the following trotting species: American, Oryol, Norfolk. In the XIX century, the breed lost its popularity, and was mainly used by amateur athletes. Friezes were bred only by peasants who did not pursue special breeding goals.And due to the displacement of horses from hippodromes, a reduction in the number of animals was observed. Therefore, it was decided to create the association "Society of the stud book on Frisian horses."

The organization was engaged in breeding a medium-sized animal for agricultural needs. But even such a measure could not slow down the sharp decline in the number of purebred stallions. The species did not compete with popular working varieties. As a result, by 1913, only three purebred representatives of the Frisian species remained in the world.

Nevertheless, the Frisians managed to get a "second wind". Dutch farmers crossed purebred stallions with individuals of the Oldenburg variety. The second crisis occurred in the 60s of the XX century. The number of animals then was only 500 heads. However, the breed still managed to be saved from irretrievable extinction. And today the frieze is considered one of the most popular types of horses used for breeding and equestrian sports.

Characteristics and description of the breed

Frisian horses stand out for their extraordinary elegance and grace, and also have an easily recognizable appearance. For several centuries, this breed has managed to preserve the full range of its universal qualities.

Height and weight

The Friesian horse is a stately animal. The height of the individual reaches 160-165 cm. In addition, horses of this breed are classified as heavy animals and have a powerful build. The mass of an individual is 600-680 kg.

Exterior

The Frisian stallion has a bright and expressive exterior, thanks to which it is easily recognizable.

This species is characterized by the following parameters:

• The head is large, elongated, with very expressive dark eyes. Profile straight with short and neat ears. Nostrils wide enough.
• The neck is long and muscular, has a graceful bend. Long and developed withers are characteristic of the species.
• The back is quite strong and strong with a slightly elongated body. The body has powerful oblique shoulders. Chest moderately wide.
• The legs of the animal are long, strong, with strong hoofs. There are brushes on the legs. Due to its high position, the brushes fall like thick curls up to the hooves. This feature is called "frisiness" and migrated to other species.The presence of such a decoration of the limbs is a basic feature of the Frisian horses and gives them a colorful "fairy tale" appearance.
• Short and shiny coat covers the thick skin of the animal. Also, the Frisian breed is characterized by an unusually long mane and a similarly long, thick and fluffy tail.

Suit

Friesian horses are representatives of the black suit. Any other colors they are absolutely not peculiar. In this case, the skin of the Frisian horse is completely devoid of marks, which is perfectly visible in the photo.

In past centuries, this breed has met many colors: bay, black, black-headed and gray. As a result of the crises suffered, the genetic diversity of the species was significantly reduced. Today, this species is known exclusively in one color - black. Occasionally, the mares found a small mark in the form of an asterisk. Stallions should not have any white markings.

Character and temper

The most important feature of the character of friezes is their equilibrium. These black giants are famous for their soft and friendly disposition. Horses are very good-natured to both adults and children. However, outwardly calm and composure hides an energetic temperament. This combination allows you to use horses for amateur walks, and for professional riding. In addition, the representatives of the friezes have excellent memory and high performance, they are curious. All these qualities help to quickly and easily train animals.

We also note the relative unpretentiousness of these giants. Friezes stand weather conditions well. But at the same time, horses are a bit more capricious about the quality and composition of feed.

Distinctive features

The Friesian horse is distinguished from other breeds by the peculiarities of its article, brushes and mane, color, character and temper, and running. Some of these features we have already discussed above. The black color in combination with a thick luxurious mane, tail and brushes creates the impression that these noble and beautiful animals had descended right from the pages of chivalrous novels.Horse breeders often prefer not to trim the animal and give curls to grow to the ground. When moving, the magnificent kosmas flow through the body and create a beautiful picture.

Since the friezes are heavy animals, they have a fairly loose constitution. However, this deficiency is compensated by high and slender legs.

In addition to the external characteristics, the specific feature of the Friesian horse is a tall and wide race. These horses move in a precise way peculiar only to them, raising limbs high.

Many horse breeders attribute the frieze to weak breeds, since such a gait implies a significant expenditure of energy when lifting legs. But precisely because of this specificity, running acquires a special charm and looks graceful.

Breed use

Friesian horses are universal, referring simultaneously to the top and heavy-weight groups. These racers are intermediate between cold-blooded heavy species and Spanish-type horses. However, they have a clear carriage specialization.

Frisian horses are often used to compete in teams, as well as in dressage and circus shows. Frieze is bred in most European countries and on both continents of America. Often these exotic horses are involved in the filming of historical films. Their rarest appearance adorns many popular films.

The versatility of the form lies in its special habits and manners. These horses are able to perform complex elements (under the saddle or hands), while remaining draft horses.

Years of practice prove that the management of other types of horses can be done only by professional horse breeders, whereas even a beginner amateur can handle the frieze.

It is difficult to meet a similar type of horses, combining in their talents the ability to cope with riding and sled riding. In addition, the animal will be an ideal substitute for mowing grass.

average cost

Breeding Friesian horses are engaged as private horse breeders, and specialized societies and clubs. For decent maintenance and sale of friezes, large areas, fresh air and good ecology are needed.Therefore, pastures should be located outside the metropolis.

The average cost of an adult frieze on the market is 45-55 thousand hryvnia. The price depends largely on the conditions of breeding and guarantees of the seller.

Possessing a Frisian giant means marking your delicate sense of taste. Today, these beautiful animals have thousands of fans around the world. Frieze can also be a devoted friend for you for many years.