Icelandic Horse

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs daily exercise or work — boredom breeds mischief.

• GroomingRegular grooming

  Regular brushing plus routine hoof and coat care.

• Living spacePaddock needed

  Needs real outdoor space — a paddock or large yard.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment25–40 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Skin conditions · Laminitis · Dental issues

Brought to Iceland by Vikings over 1,000 years ago and kept genetically pure ever since (no horse may enter the country, and none that leaves may return), the Icelandic is a small, immensely hardy horse with a thick weatherproof coat. Uniquely, most have five gaits rather than three, including the smooth, running 'tölt' and the flying pace — a joy to ride across rough country. Despite pony size they are called horses, and they carry adults easily thanks to great strength and stamina. Friendly, brave, calm and long-lived, they mature slowly (often not started under saddle until four or five) but work happily into their late twenties, making them superb, forgiving trail and family horses. The heavy double coat needs real grooming, especially during the dramatic seasonal moult. Because the breed evolved in isolation with no exposure to many diseases, imported Icelandics can be vulnerable to infections their homeland lacks, and they are notably prone to 'summer eczema' (sweet itch), an allergic skin reaction to biting midges — insect management is key. As classic easy keepers they also need careful grazing to prevent laminitis, plus routine hoof, dental and vaccination care.

• How much exercise does a Icelandic Horse need?

  High. Needs daily exercise or work — boredom breeds mischief.

• How much grooming does a Icelandic Horse need?

  Regular grooming. Regular brushing plus routine hoof and coat care.

• How much land does a Icelandic Horse need?

  Paddock needed. Needs real outdoor space — a paddock or large yard.

• Is a Icelandic Horse a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Icelandic Horse live?

  25–40 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Icelandic Horse?

  Keep an eye out for Skin conditions, Laminitis, Dental issues. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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