Norwegian Fjord Horse: Size, Color and Care

Who a Fjord Suits

Fjords suit adults and families who want a calm, strong, sure-footed horse for hacking, driving and trekking. Their steady nature makes them popular with less confident riders and in riding for the disabled.

Like any strong horse, they need consistent handling, and their appetite needs watching.

An Old Norwegian Breed

The Fjord comes from western Norway, where it worked farms and mountain tracks. It is always dun, and Norway has recognized five shades officially since 1922, brown dun being the most common.

The dark stripe runs from the forelock through the mane to the tail. Owners often trim the mane short and upright in a crescent so the stripe shows, a tradition that also keeps the mane tidy.

Feeding and Grazing

Fjords are often good-doers that keep weight easily on forage alone. On rich grass, extra weight raises the risk of laminitis, so ask your vet whether grazing should be limited, especially in spring. Base the diet on weighed hay and sensible grazing, with a balancer or mineral lick for vitamins and minerals.

See feeding horses forage first and body condition scoring.

Hooves, Teeth, Coat and Weather

Pick out feet daily and book the farrier every few weeks, and a dental check at least once a year. See hoof care and the farrier and teeth and dental care.

Fjords grow a thick winter coat and, with shelter, many live out without a blanket (rug).

Company, Space and Handling

Fjords need company and daily turnout, on grazing that won't overfeed them. See grazing and pasture management.

Health: Preventive Care

Book a check-up soon after your horse arrives, and ask your vet about vaccinations and a worming plan guided by fecal egg counts. Plan for the farrier every few weeks and a dental check at least once a year. Score body condition every few weeks, by hand: weight creeps on quietly, especially on spring grass.

Worming, vaccinations and any medicines: see your vet or a pet supply store with trained staff. They can tell you what suits your horse and where you live.

Buying, Loaning or Rescuing

National Fjord horse societies, breeders and rehoming charities are good starting points. Have a vet do a pre-purchase examination and check the passport. See buying a horse.