Horse
Pronunciation:
Nord-land-shest'/ling-shest'
Breed Description:
The Nordlanshest/Lyngshest breed of horse is a Norwegian pony breed. It is very hardy, athletic, and has exceptional endurance and intelligence. It is lighter in appearance than most Scandinavian pony breeds, making it popular as a children's show and riding pony. It comes in most solid colors except light gray and dun.
Temperament:
The Nordlanshest/Lyngshest breed of horse has an excellent temperament and is easily trained. It is a good choice for children and beginner riders.
Height:
The Nordlanshest/Lyngshest breed of horse stands 12 to 14 hands.
Weight:
The Nordlanshest/Lyngshest breed of horse weighs 500 to 800 pounds.
Health Problems:
The Nordlanshest/Lyngshest breed of horse has no breed related health problems.
Living Conditions:
The Nordlanshest/Lyngshest breed of horse is very hardy and can be kept outdoors comfortably.
Exercise:
The Nordlanshest/Lyngshest breed of horse is athletic and has exceptional endurance and enjoys regular training and exercise.
Life Expectancy:
The Nordlanshest/Lyngshest breed of horse live sinto its late twenties and often longer.
Grooming:
The Nordlanshest/Lyngshest breed of horse is a rugged breed and requires little grooming.
Origin:
The Nordlanshest/Lyngshest breed of horse is a Norwegian breed originally from Lyngen, but was given the name Nordlandshest in 1968 by breeders in that area of the country. A dispute between breeders of the horse form the two areas resulted in the combined Nordlanshest/Lyngshest name.
The Nordlandshest/Lyngshest is an ancient breed, whose ancestors were used by the Vikings and formed some of the heritage of other Scandinavian breeds. Its ancestry probably traces ultimately to central Asian breeds like the Tarpan and its eastern European descendants. It certainly has many similarities to breeds like the Polish Konik.
The Nordlandshest/Lyngshest has always been a working horse, popular on small farms of Norway. Left to roam free in the hash terrain of Norway, the breed has become very hardy and thrifty. The Nordlandshest/Lyngshest breed nearly became extinct after World War II, when farm machinery replaced them on farms. At one point there were only about 15-20 left, mostly older mares, and only one stud; Rimfakse, from whom all of today's Nordlandshest/Lyngshest today are descended. Concerted and organized efforts to save the breed have been very successful, and today there are about 3000 horses. The breed is quickly gaining popularity as a good horse for children and as a show and competition pony. 