Icelandic Pony

The Icelandic pony is not indigenous to Iceland, but is believed to descend from the North European Forest pony and the Celtic pony. The original settlers in Iceland were two Norwegian chiefs called Ingolfur and Leifur; who moved there with their livestock in A.D. 871. Other settlers from Norway and the Western Isles of Britain also took livestock with them, hence the birth of the Icelandic pony.

The Icelandic pony is actually a small horse, with horse-like characteristics. They represent a unique position in modern breeds in that the Icelandic has been uninfluenced by outside blood for over 800 years and is, therefore, one of the most pure breeds in existence. Approximately 900 years ago oriental blood was used on the breed to such disastrous effect that a law was passed banning the importation of foreign equines. This remains in effect today and any exported Icelandic horse is not allowed back into the country.

The Icelandic horse occupies a central part of Icelandic life and has for centuries been heralded by the local people. For many years, they were the only from of transportation and today are still widely used to transverse areas not suitable for motor vehicles. They have played an important role in island life from being used to work the land, for transporting goods, riding and for sporting events, which are gaining in popularity. There are various different types of Icelandic horse which have been developed to suit certain functions. Within the breed there are heavier types more suited to draft work and lighter saddlehorse types. There are frequent horse shows held on the island and racing over short distances is virtually a weekly occurrence.

The Icelandic horse has five natural gaits - the walk, the trot, the fast gallop, the pace, and the tőlt. The tőlt is a very fast four-beat lateral gait, which can only be maintained over short distances. Typically the Icelandic horse is strong, sturdy, and stocky with a large head, intelligent eyes, a short thick neck, strong legs and a heavy; thick mane and forelock. Interestingly, they also have excellent sight and an uncanny homing instinct. They normally stand at between 12.3 hh and 13.2 hh and although predominantly gray or dun, or chestnut, they are found in any color.