This Magnificent breed originated in the Netherlands and is primarily found in the province of Friesland.  The Friesians sturdy build and strong back made him an excellent war horse during mediaeval times and as a calvary mount during the 17th century but he was mainly used as a farm and carriage horse.  The Friesian horse nearly died out before W.W.I but during W.W.II petrol shortages brought the numbers up as people were once again using carriage horses.
Today the breed is gaining popularity but numbers  are still low and there are strict regulations set for breeders to keep the lines pure

Breeding

Mares
When a mare turns 3 years old she becomes eligible to be entered in the mare registry.  Once a year inspectors from the Netherlands come overseas to look at new prospects.  If a mare is accepted by the inspectors she is branded on the left side of her neck with the shape of an "F".  If she is of exceptional standards she is branded with an "S" along side the "F" indicating that she is a star mare.

Stallions
Only stallions approved by the Friesian Horse Association are permitted to breed.  Due to strict guidelines on temperament and conformation there are currently less than 10 breeding stallions in the United Stated and less than 50 qualified stallions world wide.  To be eligible for breeding a stallion must be from a star mare and a qualified stallion.  He must attain a specific height  by the age of 2 1/2 and his lineage is closely examined.  If any of his ancestors have been found to have white markings on their legs the stallion is disqualified.  Temperament is also taken into consideration , not only of the given stallion but of his dam as well.  These standards have been set to ensure the purity of the breed .

Foals
When a foal is born it is entered into the Veulenboek ( foal book) and given a foal number.  The foal is then inspected along side its dam and a registration number is tattooed under its tongue

Characteristics

Average height 15-16hh
Color  Always black occasionally a white star can be found
long head with small ears and shapely neck
mane and tail are exceptionally long and often wavy
strong back and deep ribs
well rounded hind quarters with low set tail
legs are strong and covered with feathers (hair) often from the knee down
warm blooded

Common uses

Popular circus horse , carriage horse and farm horse
used to pull the mourning carriage in london and often used in Hollywood for mediaeval movies.
 
 

 

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