Horse
Pronunciation:
north Swee'-dish
Breed Description:
The North Swedish breed of horse is a small horse of a light draft type originating in Sweden. Some types are lighter is structure, and are used fro harness racing. The North Swedish Horse is athletic and hardy, and resembles its near , the Dølahest. It is still used extensively by the Army and for forestry work. It is a popular horse for riding and farm and forestry work, because of its strength, endurance, and intelligence. It comes in all solid colors, although black is predominant, and has a thick mane and tail and some leg feathering.
Temperament:
The North Swedish breed of horse is very intelligent and easy to train, but can be independent and willful without consistent training and exercise.
Height:
The North Swedish breed of horse stands 15 to 15.3 hands.
Weight:
The North Swedish breed of horse weighs 1000 to 1200 pounds.
Health Problems:
The North Swedish breed of horse was once prone to bone problems in the lower legs, but managed breeding programs have all but eliminated this concern.
Living Conditions:
The North Swedish breed of horse is very hardy and can be kept outdoors in almost any conditions.
Exercise:
The North Swedish breed of horse enjoys regular work and is very athletic. however, if kept at pasture the North Swedish can remain idle for periods of time with few ill effects.
Life Expectancy:
The North Swedish breed of horse lives into its late twenties and even longer.
Grooming:
The North Swedish breed of horse generally requires little maintenance, although the abundant mane and tail and leg feathering benefit from routine grooming.
Origin:
The North Swedish breed of horse has ancient origins closely connected with those of its neighbour, the Norwegian Dølahest. The breed has been cross-bred to a great extent, and it was only after a breed society was established at the end of the 19th century when a more uniform type was created. Dølahest stallions from Norway were used, and at the beginning of the 20th century stringent performance tests for breeding stock were introduced, which developed the breed's harness racing speed in particular. Today breeding it strictly controlled, and the animals intended for breeding are thoroughly tested. 