- Norwegian Fjord -

  Norway's unusual looking Fjord Pony is believed to have inhabited Norway, and probably other parts of Scandinavia, since prehistoric times. At a quick glance it is not unlike the Przewalski's Horse (the Asiatic Wild Horse) in appearance, thought the head is much less heavy and primitive, being more pony-like in shape and size. Ponies resembling the Fjord are depicted in Viking art. They can be seen fighting, a pastime which was also popular in Iceland and that may have been engaged in for sport, as a form of performance testing or, more likely, a combination of both.

Hundreds, if not thousands, of years spent in a mountainous habitat have produced a pony that is perfectly adapted to its environment. Sturdy and muscular, the Norwegian Fjord has short, strong legs with good joints and hard, sound feet. Down the centuries its inherent sure-footedness, strength, soundness, and tremendous stamina have made it an invaluable help to farmers. Since they are also used to coping with severe weather conditions and are undaunted by the most rugged terrain, they have also proved to be the perfect pack-pony for use on mountain trails.

Nowadays the Norwegian Fjord can be found in a number of countries outside Scandinavia, including Germany, Denmark, and England. It makes a good all-purpose riding horse and also goes well in harness.

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