The Case for the Fjord

A while back I wrote a blog post about the case against the fjord. While their looks can be deceiving, I believe that the good outweighs the bad. Here's why:

1. They are adorable. 

This one is a given, because, well, they are Fjords for crying out loud. At the end of the day, sometimes Ypke's cuteness factor is her only redeeming quality.


A cute pony with kind eyes

2. They are level-headed.

I for one have never seen a Fjord completely lose it (bolt, throw huge tantrums, bucking fests). Sure Ypke sometimes has crazy spooks, but they are far and few. From my observations, Fjords are tolerant horses who put up with A LOT — whether it is getting their mouth yanked on, someone bouncing around in the saddle, or little Mary Jean who insists on running up directly behind and petting their tail. They aren't hotheaded horses, but they are definitely willing to move out when asked.

Be happy, not hot-tempered

3. They are hardy and strong.

I have never heard of or known of anyone who had a Fjord go lame (except in the case of founder).  Ypke has never had a lame day in her life. This breed is known for their excellent hooves and ability to go barefoot — I can testify because Ypke has strong, beautiful hooves with no issues. While there are sportier builds being bred, I have always liked their drafty structure. Fjords are short yet stout tanks that can carry a surprising amount of weight.

4. They are bold.

You would be hard-pressed to find a Fjord that spooks at butterflies and plastic bags.  I have always loved how confident they are — whether it is crossing bridges and tarps without a second thought or happily splashing through water. You can literally throw anything at Ypke and she will end up cocking a hind leg, drooping her lip, and falling asleep.

Kori, owned by Wendy Luscombe, jumping 4'3
Photo taken by: Carol Hill

5. They are athletic and versatile.

Remember how I did that Fjord of the Month interview with Koriakin of Narnia? Kori is a lovely dressage horse who has been shortlisted for the National Dressage Championships and won 12 USDF All Breed Awards among other things. Don't be fooled though, this dressage horse can JUMP.  In fact, he easily cleared a 4'3 fence during a jumping demo at Equine Affaire.  Many people are under the impression that Fjords are just slow, fat, lazy little ponies, so I'll just let that sink in.

I think that about sums it up!  Have you ever met any Fjords that can relate to this?