Origin
The Nordlands-/lyngshorse is the smallest of Norway's native breeds. Like the dole horse and fjord horse there is much conjecture as to the origin of the breed and its historical development. Most theories learn to the idea that the breed comes from the east. As the name denotes the breed is connected with the North of Norway. At the end of the 1930s an attempt was made to save the breed. The number of animals being very small and after World War II the stock numbered a mere 100-120 horses. The number decreased even more, but between 1960-70 the trend was reversed. The first studbook was published in 1969.
Usage
The Nordlands-/lyngshorse was originally a tough little farm horse living in extreme conditions just below and above the Arctic Circle. There is little need now for a small draughthorse, but the breed continues to be popular as a leisure riding and driving horse. Despite its modest height, it s a real weight carrier. It is important to breed a versatile horse which is suitable as well as a packhorse as for trekking. Because of its pleasant movement it is also used in riding for the disabled.
Conformation and breed description
The height of the Nordlands-/lyngshorse is between 128-140 cm. The head should not be too light and "pretty". Nature having developed the breed to survive in the worst possible conditions. The neck may be rather heavy and the back is inclined to be straight. The quarters are sloping but broad with a good second thigh. The legs are not coarse and have little feather and are very strong. The hooves are known for their excellent quality. During the last decades more attention has been paid to movement. The breed is now considered to have potential as a trotting pony.
The colour range is wide. Chestnut, brown, bay and black predominate but colours such as palomino, dun and grey are also to be found.
Location
The Nordlands-/lyngshorse is, despite the name, is now found all over the country. There are just as many in the south as in the north. The total amount of horses in the breed is about 2000. In the year 2000 about 135 Nordlands-/lyngshorse foals were born.
More information? Email me: nlvenner@hest.no
Eliasnes Ludvig, Valsborg Tornado, Icora Vinter and Viri Prinsen
Silko 88-3503 and Bastian 96-3591, Hest 2002
Siljar 98-3541 and Tegners Stella
Sylvester 94-3523
Ratos
The article is published with permission from Norsk Hestesenter
Nordlandshestens/Lyngshestens Venner | Copyright 2001-2003