Origin & History
Brought to Iceland by Norse settlers over a thousand years ago, the Icelandic Horse has been bred in near-total isolation ever since — Icelandic law prohibits importing any horses back into the country, which has kept the breed pure and disease-free for centuries.
Appearance
Small but sturdy, Icelandics have a thick double coat for insulation against harsh winters, a full mane and tail, and come in an unusually wide range of colors and patterns for a single breed.
Gait & Temperament
Uniquely, many Icelandics perform five gaits instead of the usual three or four, including the smooth "tölt" and the fast, flying pace. Friendly and fearless despite their small size, they're known for confidently handling rough terrain.
Once an Icelandic Horse leaves Iceland, it can never return — a strict biosecurity law to protect the breed's isolation.
Common Uses
Tölt competitions, trail riding, and general pleasure riding for riders of all sizes.
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