The Norwegian fjord horse has been traced back through history over 4000 years. The breed has been carefully preserved and selectively bred for the past 2000 years. They were originally bred as helpers to the Vikings and were kept on board their ships and used to pull them up narrow fjords from the rocky shores. They were later used as farm horses to cultivate the farm land and provide transportation to the families they belonged to.

The Norwegians think very highly of the Fjord breed and have made them a national symbol. Their image has appeared on stamps, coins and in beautiful works or art displayed throughout the country.

The fjords of today are among the most versatile breeds available and are becoming more and more popular in many different disciplines. They are among very few breeds who are able to successfully perform a range of tasks from logging to dressage.

Norwegian Fjords are an extremely hardy breed, as they were originally bred to survive on the rocky slopes of Norway with very little pasture. Our sub zero winters suit them just fine, it seems the colder it gets, the happier they are! They are well equipped to handle cold temperatures and grow the most amazing winter coats imaginable. Fjord horses are very easy keepers and great care must be taken in their management to not allow them to become too chubby.

The Fjord usually stands between 13.2 and 14.2 hands and weighs between 900 and 1200 pounds, although there are no limits mandated by the registry. It is found in 5 colours of dun; brown (most common), grey, red, yellow and white. White markings are not common and only acceptable on mares in very small amounts.

Poplar Ridge Fjord Horses is a member of both the Canadian and American Fjord Horse Associations. More info on this beautiful breed can be found at the websites belonging to the Canadian Fjord horse Association: www.cfha.org or the Norwegian Fjord Horse Registry Located in the USA: www.nfhr.com