The Friesian horse is unique, truly a breed to be proud of.   It developed from a very old breed which was inherent to all of western Europe.   It's the only horse native to Holland.   Historically speaking, the Friesian horse has been influenced by eastern bloodlines and has often been threatened with extinction.   Thanks to the single-mindedness and dauntless dedication of true horse lovers, one can still appreciate the many facets of the Friesian horse today.

Breed Characteristics

Without a doubt, the black coat of the Friesian will impress you at first sight. Bays and grays occurred earlier in the breed, but now black is the only recognized color.   A small white forehead star is also allowed.   Other obvious characteristics are the long, heavy mane and tail and the Shire-like fetlock hair. Friesian Horses are always black.   White markings are not allowed on the body or legs.   They have a long, thick, flowing mane and tail and pronounced fetlock hair.   Under no circumstance is it permissible to dock the tail of a Friesian and, in fact, trimming of any hair from mane, tail or legs is frowned upon. The Friesian Horse holds it head high and proud with an arching neck.   The animated gait is natural.   Selective breeding is used to achieve the active hock action and high, extended from leg action.   The body is strong and deep with a sloping shoulder.   The rear quarters are sloping with a somewhat low-set tail.   Registered Friesian stallions must be at least 15.3 hands by the age of four and mares must be at least 14.3 hands.   The mares average about 1300 lbs., more for males.

Use

The Friesian horse is enjoying a revival.  He is a noteworthy sight in the show ring.   His shiny black coat, flying mane and tail, and high action form an imposing image.   The Friesian is, by nature, a talented show horse.

Harness shows

The aim of showing in harness is to bring out the best in one's horse.   The horse should be balanced in a fast, high-action trot, roomy from the shoulder and powerful in the hindquarters.   The total picture is one of lively harmony, with ears pricked attentively forward.   Harness events in shows are usually driven with a high-wheeled gig, the "sjees", for singles, pairs, and tandems.   Driving with four-wheeled show carts is also gaining popularity.

Recreational and Competition Driving

Driving one or more Friesian horses has become increasingly popular in the past few years.   Tough international competitions are only for the few, but there are many who derive relaxation and pleasure from driving Friesians for recreation.   He who wants to perfect his driving and test his skill against others, can do so at the many dressage driving events.

Riding

The Friesian horse has a talent for dressage.   The foundation lies in his intelligence, willingness to learn, and readiness to perform.   His pleasant character and his gentleness make the Friesian an attractive mount for competition as well as for recreational purposes.   The riding club "De Oorsprong" (the source), from Huis ter Heide near St. Nicolaasga in Friesland, has been using only Friesian horses since 1937 in order to advertise their abilities as riding horses.

Tilting at the Ring

This traditional sport is still enthusiastically practiced throughout Holland.   One can see Friesians pulling a wide assortment of carriages at these events.

Quadrille

The Friesian quadrille is a well-appreciated show number.   It is comprised of 8 sjees, drawn by Friesians, driven by gentlemen accompanied by a lady, both dressed in traditional costumes like those worn in the 1850's.   Complex patterns are driven, showing the drivers' trust in the obedience of their horses.

Breed Organizations

To maintain the integrity of the breed, the Friesian Horse Association of North America (FHANA) working in concert with the original parent organization, the Friesch Paarden Stamboek in the Netherlands strictly regulates the registration of the Friesian Horse.   The FPS is the registry for the Friesian horse worldwide.   The registry was founded in 1879 and today's Dutch registered horses are the result of over a century of rigorous evaluation and selection of breeding stock.   Organizations from other countries may also register Friesian horses, but horses registered with those organizations may not have met the standards of the FPS and therefore the true Dutch Friesian registry cannot recognize the horses.   The Friesian Horse Association of North America cannot recognize a horse whose papers are not issued by the Friesch Paarden Stamboek.

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