Faroese Horse



About the Breed

The Faroe pony, Faeroes pony, or Faroese horse, (Føroyska rossið) is a small pony, with a height between 11.1 to 12.1 hands (45 to 49 inches, 114 to 124 cm). Technically this animal is a pony due to its height, but in the Faroe Islands it is called a horse because of its strength. Since the Faroe pony only lives on the Faroes, it is not well known in other countries.

The colours of the pony may vary, but they are mainly chestnut brown, black or speckled, with some white ones found in previous populations. It is known to be a very enduring, strong, friendly, adaptable and sure-footed breed with four gaits including the tölt, an ambling gait which it shares with the Icelandic horse.

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It was previously used to carry or haul heavy loads at farms and some sources also describe it being trained to herd sheep (known as tøkuhestar). When it was not at work, it was released onto the mountains where it roamed freely.







Quick Facts

Height: 11.1 to 12.1 hands (45 to 49 inches, 114 to 124 cm

Weight: 550-660 lb

Coat Colors: mainly chestnut brown, black or speckled, with some white ones

Markings: n/a

Conformation: Thick coat and strong-footed

Common Uses: hobby breeders and mostly used as a riding horse for children

Temperament: enduring, strong, friendly, adaptable.

Place of Origin: Faroe Islands





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