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Disciplines & Uses

The Friesian is a versatile horse because of its intelligence and gentle nature combined with lots of flash and power. Some examples of successful uses are in the dressage arena, in harness, marathon driving, saddle seat, sidesaddle, trail, western pleasure, parades, horse fair demos, circus, theater, and in the movies (even in a Jack In The Box commercial!). To decide if a Friesian is right for your plans you have to keep their background and type in mind. Their timeline took them from forest horse to work horse, knight's horse, high-school dressage horse, fancy harness horse and racing trotter, back to work horse, and now back to where they shine: fancy performance and show. If you are looking for an endurance horse, a jumper, a barrel racer or ranch worker, a Friesian is not the best choice but if you are looking for a show-stopping saddle and harness horse and a true friend you have come to the right breed.

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.

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.

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.