Today's Friesian horse, which takes its name from Friesland (a Dutch province bordering the North Sea in the Netherlands, where it originated) is descended from one of Europe's oldest horses - Equus Robustus, the Roman war and work horse made famous in ancient paintings and statuary. 
As recently as the late 19th century, the Friesian horse - valued as a war horse during the Crusades, respected throughout history for it's bravery, impressive natural gaits, gentle temperament, Thanks to the vigilance and commitment of a few dedicated souls, the few remaining stallions and mares were saved, and a registry was created too carefully monitor and control the return of the breed. Now, there are two registries - the FPS in the Netherlands, and the FPZV in Germany - dedicated to the Friesian horse.
Through the efforts of the registries, the breed has flourished, and is now enjoying great popularity for the same reasons it was treasured in it's early history.
The Friesian has evolved from the stout warhorse of old into the elegant, accomplished sport horse of today. The characteristics of today's Friesian are its overall majestic appearance, with its high set topline, muscular stature, strong chest and legs, proportionate head and ears, luxuriant mane and tail, and feathering on the lower legs. Its other impressive features are the kind and expressive eye, nicely curved neck, and high stepping, powerful gaits.
While the 18th century Friesian was developed for trotting and carriage work disciplines in which it still excels, the modern Friesian is emerging as a competitive dressage and performance horse as well. Friesians are frequently featured in European circuses and equestrian shows, and can also be see quite often in movies and television programs.
These are beautiful horses. But more than that, they are easy going, hard working, honest, wanting to please, and very kind and people-oriented. The Friesian horse is finally enjoying the fame and appreciation it deserves.
We welcome any inquiries about this breed, RPF's goals for our breeding program, and our available horses for sale or import.
As recently as the late 19th century, the Friesian horse - valued as a war horse during the Crusades, respected throughout history for it's bravery, impressive natural gaits, gentle temperament, Thanks to the vigilance and commitment of a few dedicated souls, the few remaining stallions and mares were saved, and a registry was created too carefully monitor and control the return of the breed. Now, there are two registries - the FPS in the Netherlands, and the FPZV in Germany - dedicated to the Friesian horse.
Through the efforts of the registries, the breed has flourished, and is now enjoying great popularity for the same reasons it was treasured in it's early history.
The Friesian has evolved from the stout warhorse of old into the elegant, accomplished sport horse of today. The characteristics of today's Friesian are its overall majestic appearance, with its high set topline, muscular stature, strong chest and legs, proportionate head and ears, luxuriant mane and tail, and feathering on the lower legs. Its other impressive features are the kind and expressive eye, nicely curved neck, and high stepping, powerful gaits.
While the 18th century Friesian was developed for trotting and carriage work disciplines in which it still excels, the modern Friesian is emerging as a competitive dressage and performance horse as well. Friesians are frequently featured in European circuses and equestrian shows, and can also be see quite often in movies and television programs.
These are beautiful horses. But more than that, they are easy going, hard working, honest, wanting to please, and very kind and people-oriented. The Friesian horse is finally enjoying the fame and appreciation it deserves.
We welcome any inquiries about this breed, RPF's goals for our breeding program, and our available horses for sale or import.
