Finnish Horse: A Historical, Hardy and Lovely Breed
Finnish Horse is a versatile and hardy breed originating from Finland. It was initially bred to assist Finnish farmers with agricultural work, transportation and forest operations, but today is also used for therapeutic purposes, shows, and recreational riding. With its intelligence, amiability and durability, the Finnish Horse is an excellent choice for those looking for a versatile horse that can handle the toughest of environments.
Finnish Horse History
The Finnish Horse breed dates back to the 13th century when it was initially bred as a workhorse for timber extraction in the forests of Finland. Over time, the breed evolved and became lighter and more agile. The breed was standardized in the mid-19th century, and the studbook was created in 1907.
In the 20th century, as mechanization became more widespread, there was a decline in the demand for horsepower. The breed was nearly extinct by the end of World War II. However, a breeding program initiated in the 1960s has helped to revive the population. Today, there are around 22,000 Finnish Horses in Finland.
Finnish Horse Temperament
The Finnish Horse is known for its calm temperament and its amiable nature. It is usually a friendly and docile animal, which makes it an excellent choice for inexperienced riders. It is also known for its intelligence, which allows it to be trained successfully for work, riding, or even as a therapy animal.
Finnish Horse Height
The breed is generally between 14.2-16.2 hands high (1.47-1.67 meters), which makes it an excellent choice for a variety of people. The breed is ridden for sports and therapy and used for forestry work, which requires a durable and sturdy horse.
Finnish Horse Characteristics
The Finnish Horse breed is highly recognizable and known for its unique characteristics. The breed has a well-defined head, a high neck set on a deep chest and sloping shoulders. It has strong, sturdy legs, and small hooves.
Finnish Horses have a compact and muscular build, which allows them to perform well in demanding tasks. Their coats are usually very sleek, with a different range of colors. The breed comes in different colors such as chestnut, black, bay, gray, and brown.
Finnish Horse Lifespan
The Finnish horse has a lifespan of about 25-30 years, which is relatively long. The breed is well known for its health and durability and can live a long and healthy life if given proper care. Because of its long lifespan, it is important to take into account the long-term care of these majestic animals before bringing one home.
Finnish Horse Colors
The Finnish Horse breed comes in different colors, each with its unique characteristics. The most common color is chestnut, followed by black, bay, gray, and brown. While there are other exotic colors like the Dun, which is a light brown color with a stripe of dark hair on its back, these are relatively rare.
Finnish Horse Health
The Finnish Horse breed is generally healthy and hardy. They are known for their ability to withstand harsh weather conditions and illness. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain diseases and disorders that can affect their overall health. Some of these include:
∙ Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA)
∙ Equine Influenza (EI)
∙ Colic
∙ Laminitis
∙ Parasites
To maintain the health of your Finnish Horse, it is important to provide proper care, including regular exercise, vaccinations, de-worming, and a balanced diet of good quality hay and grains.
Conclusion
The Finnish Horse is a hardy, versatile, and lovely breed that has played a significant role in the history and culture of Finland. Today, the breed is valued worldwide for its remarkable personality, sturdiness, and versatility. Investing in a Finnish Horse as a riding companion or workhorse can provide years of enjoyment and benefits, provided you give them the care and attention they deserve. Whether you want to take a relaxing ride or compete in a show, the Finnish Horse has the ability to meet your needs while captivating your heart.