10 Interesting Facts About the Friesian Horse Breed

 

The Friesian horse breed is definitely one of my favorite horse breeds. They are so elegant, gentle, magnificent and graceful, and they're long wavy mane and tail with their glossy, pure black coat are they're main stunning features.  Here are 10 interesting facts about the Friesian horse:

1. The Friesian horse is an ancient breed, dating back before the year, 1200! Back then, this breed was commonly used for wars.

2. Friesian horses do not only have black coats. In extremely rare situations, some Friesians are chestnut! Those with a chestnut coat are called, Fire Friesians. 

3. Friesians got their breed name from their originating location. Friesians originated in Friesland, a province in the Netherlands. 

4. Friesians have a calm and steady personality. Friesians are very loyal, and willing, and are well-known for their gentle nature. 

5. Friesian horses were once very close to extinction. During the 20th century, this breed of horse almost went extinct worldwide! 

6. Friesians are a relatively rare breed and very expensive. A qualified or approved Friesian stallion used for breeding is usually sold anywhere between $200,000- $600,000! These horses are so expensive due to their strict breeding standards and because they are a pure and rare breed. 

7. Friesian horses can be quite tall. This breed's height usually ranges from 15 hands to 16.5 hands. Although quite a few of these horses have been measured over 17 hands! 

8. Friesian horses have feathers on their fetlocks. 

9. Friesians have a short lifespan. Most horse breeds have a life expectancy of between 25 to 30 years, however this range is much shorter for Friesians. Their average life expectancy falls between 13 and 17 years of age. This is likely due to a large amount of inbreeding in their bloodlines, although the exact cause is unknown. 

10. Friesians are popular in the film and entertainment industry. Friesians have been used so much in movies since the movie Ladyhawke came out in 1985, which featured a Friesian stallion named Othello. 

I hope you enjoyed reading through this article, the Friesian horse is such an incredible, magnificent breed.