- North Swedish Horse -

The North Swedish Horse is a relatively young breed, with its studbook being established in 1909. They are related to the Dole Gudbrandsdal, having both developed from the ancient native horses of the area. There have been infusions of Friesian and Oldenburg into the North Swedish breed, as well as some crossings with the heavy European draft breeds. Since 1903, there have been very strict regulations for the breeding of the North Swedish in an effort to continue their particular admirable characteristics. Foremost in this has been the Stallion Rearing Institute of Wangen in Jamtland, which is now one of the principal North Swedish studs.

One of the most remarkable things about the North Swedish is their incredible strength, draft capabilities, and endurance when compared to the relative smallness of their frame. They are not a heavy draft horse in terms of the Clydesdale and Percheron, but are ideally suited for the forest and lumber work for which they have been principally bred. They are one of the most rigorously tested breeds in the world, and have to undergo testing on their pulling powers, fertility, and have X-rays of their lower legs done. Annually there is a County Horse Days event, where stallions and mares are examined in a number of different situations, and particular attention is paid to temperament. There has developed a second type of North Swedish horse, which is a finer, lighter animal, and which has been produced with harness racing in mind. It is called the North Swedish Trotter.

They are willing and cooperative workers, and were used extensively for farm and forest work in Sweden, being more efficient in these conditions than machinery. They are also notably long lived and seem to be relatively immune to many equine diseases. They have excellent temperament and are very obliging - their temperament is greatly valued and is a careful consideration when breeding.

In appearance, they have a slightly heavy pony-type head set to a shortish but muscular and crested neck. They are often quite long in body and have well-constructed and reasonably sloping shoulders, which allow for their excellent active long - striding paces. The legs should be short and strong, with some feathering. Generally they are brown, chestnut, or dun with black points, and stand between 15 and 15.3 hh.

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