Are Friesians considered a draft/light draft/"cold-blooded" horse?
The Friesian we know today is a type of WARMBLOOD, it is not a draft/light draft horse.
One way I've heard the Friesian referenced is that it is "the cold-blood among warmbloods." Meaning that its temperament is much more similar to that of a draft horse but it's pedigree is that of a warmblood.
The earliest times of origin of the Friesian horse are not completely known due to lack of documentation available from that era. And keep in mind, during the early part of history, horse breeds didn't exist. They were distinguished based on their purpose - such as a rouncey, courser/charger, palfrey, or destrier. Click here to read more...
The Friesian is said to be the descendent of the Equus robustus (a heavier, forest-type horse) which was later likely crossed with lighter horses during its development.
In my "fine-tooth-comb" approach of research, much of what we know today about the Friesian really didn't have any documentation until the 1500s or so. Any documentation found earlier seems to go based off assumption or implication. And much of the very early literature is not even written in modern English nor has been translated let alone has gone as far as getting it published in its entirety online. So, to crosscheck these implications is nearly impossible, even with the resources we have online today. And to be able to get ahold of some of these old books or documents would require a small fortune! But I digress..
Perhaps the more well-known contributions came during the Spanish occupancy of the Netherlands from the 1556 to 1714. The Spanish cavalry would have brought their Andalusian/Iberian stallions (with Arabian blood) and influenced the existing population of horses . The Andalusian itself is, in fact, considered a warmblood as are Lusitanos, Lipizzaners, Kladrubers, along with other "baroque" breeds.
The resulting Friesian is a combination of both hot- and cold-blooded horse types, which we recognize as the term "warm" blood. Like other Warmblood breeds, the Friesian was fine-tuned and bred true to type - which we could then argue as being recognized as an actual breed.
The modern draft horse breeds we know today are descended from the Black/Great Horse of Flanders from Belgium (think Brabant or Belgian) and should only contain coldblood - no outside influence from Arabians or any other breeds. So, this excludes the Friesian from the coldblood/draft category.
One way I've heard the Friesian referenced is that it is "the cold-blood among warmbloods." Meaning that its temperament is much more similar to that of a draft horse but it's pedigree is that of a warmblood.
The earliest times of origin of the Friesian horse are not completely known due to lack of documentation available from that era. And keep in mind, during the early part of history, horse breeds didn't exist. They were distinguished based on their purpose - such as a rouncey, courser/charger, palfrey, or destrier. Click here to read more...
The Friesian is said to be the descendent of the Equus robustus (a heavier, forest-type horse) which was later likely crossed with lighter horses during its development.
In my "fine-tooth-comb" approach of research, much of what we know today about the Friesian really didn't have any documentation until the 1500s or so. Any documentation found earlier seems to go based off assumption or implication. And much of the very early literature is not even written in modern English nor has been translated let alone has gone as far as getting it published in its entirety online. So, to crosscheck these implications is nearly impossible, even with the resources we have online today. And to be able to get ahold of some of these old books or documents would require a small fortune! But I digress..
Perhaps the more well-known contributions came during the Spanish occupancy of the Netherlands from the 1556 to 1714. The Spanish cavalry would have brought their Andalusian/Iberian stallions (with Arabian blood) and influenced the existing population of horses . The Andalusian itself is, in fact, considered a warmblood as are Lusitanos, Lipizzaners, Kladrubers, along with other "baroque" breeds.
The resulting Friesian is a combination of both hot- and cold-blooded horse types, which we recognize as the term "warm" blood. Like other Warmblood breeds, the Friesian was fine-tuned and bred true to type - which we could then argue as being recognized as an actual breed.
The modern draft horse breeds we know today are descended from the Black/Great Horse of Flanders from Belgium (think Brabant or Belgian) and should only contain coldblood - no outside influence from Arabians or any other breeds. So, this excludes the Friesian from the coldblood/draft category.
‘But Warmbloods are distinguished breeds.’
Historically, warmbloods were first created by crossing a draft horse and lighter horse. Theoretically, every warmblood horse should be able to trace their lineage back to a draft and light horse pairing if horse pedigree records have been kept free from error for many, many years. Since this concept became quite popular, they were able to branch off to develop into specific breeds based on intended purpose, criteria, etc. and began breeding true to type.
Historically, warmbloods were first created by crossing a draft horse and lighter horse. Theoretically, every warmblood horse should be able to trace their lineage back to a draft and light horse pairing if horse pedigree records have been kept free from error for many, many years. Since this concept became quite popular, they were able to branch off to develop into specific breeds based on intended purpose, criteria, etc. and began breeding true to type.
When we use the terms, hot-blood, cold-blood, and warmblood, we are not talking about the literal temperature of the horse's blood. These terms apply to the horse's temperament and, to some extent, general origin and conformation.
Hot-blood: Middle-eastern horses, fast, light, energetic, highly-lively, fine appearance
Cold-blood: European horses, big, heavy-boned, some are feathered, slower, more deliberate
Hot-blood: Middle-eastern horses, fast, light, energetic, highly-lively, fine appearance
Cold-blood: European horses, big, heavy-boned, some are feathered, slower, more deliberate
But I heard the Friesian was "originally" developed as a carriage horse..
That really depends on what part of the Friesians' history you're looking at. Again, without it being clearly written, we can only make assumptions - based on those different time periods - what usefulness the horse could have provided.
It would be very safe to assume that during it's early start, it probably worked in the fields, as a cart horse, for transportation, or some combination of. We do know that it was capable of carrying armored Knights. So, at some point, it maybe moved out of the fields or every-day role and became a war mount.
And once the need for heavily armed cavalry dissipated, they found their way into the Baroque era as a fancy, flashy, grand mount. Also taking apart alongside other regal breeds of the time such as the Andalusian, Lipizzan, Murgese, and Lusitano in haute école.
It would be very safe to assume that during it's early start, it probably worked in the fields, as a cart horse, for transportation, or some combination of. We do know that it was capable of carrying armored Knights. So, at some point, it maybe moved out of the fields or every-day role and became a war mount.
And once the need for heavily armed cavalry dissipated, they found their way into the Baroque era as a fancy, flashy, grand mount. Also taking apart alongside other regal breeds of the time such as the Andalusian, Lipizzan, Murgese, and Lusitano in haute école.
What can Friesians all do?
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I read a lot of comments that down play the Friesian and their versatility. As a Friesian owner and enthusiast, it's very unfortunate to hear because this breed really does have a lot to offer. I can confidently say that these claims are simply not true. Not only are Friesians very versatile, but they can also be just as competitive when given the same opportunities as you might with other breeds.
So what can a Friesian do? Short answer - almost anything. Today, we typically see Friesians performing in disciplines such as dressage and driving, in movies and TV shows, or being used as a casual trail horse. |
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But don't let the fairy-tale appearance of those luxurious locks, elegant feathering, obsidian coats, and regal bearing fool you. This a working breed, with their origins ranging from being the humble work horse as well as carrying soldiers, knights, and possibly even some historical figures.
I've seen so many photos and talked to many different people who use them for a wide range of purposes. They are being used for English pleasure, western pleasure, western dressage, saddleseat, sidesaddle, halter/in-hand, equine assisted therapy, liberty, cattle work, competitive trail obstacles, jousting, hunting, trick riding, parades, horseback archery, and more.
So .. what "can't" a Friesian do?
Their physiology and heavier build might make them slightly less ideal for certain activities like sustained energy-sports; endurance, eventing, and jumping. I have seen several pictures of Friesians being jumped over shorter fences. But, very obviously, we do not see them competing at higher levels in these disciplines. Also consider that (some of) these horses seem to be more prone to connective tissue issues, thus making it more likely they could develop suspensory issues.
Not only are they built a little heavier, but, like Quarter Horses, Friesians may possess more fast twitch muscle fibers than slow twitch.** These fast twitch fibers are capable of quick bursts of energy over a shorter period of time. These muscles resort to using anaerobic respiration (creation of energy without the presence of oxygen). These individuals reach fatigue much sooner than an individual which may possess more slow twitch muscle fibers.
Does this make the Friesian any lesser of a horse? Absolutely not. There are certainly other breeds out there that face a similar situation. But it may be part of the reason they are not suited for high, sustained levels of activity.
I've seen so many photos and talked to many different people who use them for a wide range of purposes. They are being used for English pleasure, western pleasure, western dressage, saddleseat, sidesaddle, halter/in-hand, equine assisted therapy, liberty, cattle work, competitive trail obstacles, jousting, hunting, trick riding, parades, horseback archery, and more.
So .. what "can't" a Friesian do?
Their physiology and heavier build might make them slightly less ideal for certain activities like sustained energy-sports; endurance, eventing, and jumping. I have seen several pictures of Friesians being jumped over shorter fences. But, very obviously, we do not see them competing at higher levels in these disciplines. Also consider that (some of) these horses seem to be more prone to connective tissue issues, thus making it more likely they could develop suspensory issues.
Not only are they built a little heavier, but, like Quarter Horses, Friesians may possess more fast twitch muscle fibers than slow twitch.** These fast twitch fibers are capable of quick bursts of energy over a shorter period of time. These muscles resort to using anaerobic respiration (creation of energy without the presence of oxygen). These individuals reach fatigue much sooner than an individual which may possess more slow twitch muscle fibers.
Does this make the Friesian any lesser of a horse? Absolutely not. There are certainly other breeds out there that face a similar situation. But it may be part of the reason they are not suited for high, sustained levels of activity.
- Monitoring training response in young Friesian dressage horses using two different standardised exercise tests (SETs)
- Equine Exercise Physiology
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- Type I (slow twitch) - Arabian horses have a high percentage of; ideal for endurance and sustained energy usage
- Type II (fast twitch)
- IIA high-glycolytic, high-oxidative fibers: Thoroughbred horses have a high percentage of; quick burst of speed over long distances
- IIB high-glycolytic, low-oxidative fibers: Quarter Horses (and possibly Friesians) have a high percentage of; quick bursts of speed over shorter distances
What is their temperament like?
Generally speaking, the Friesian is fairly even-tempered, loyal, curious, personable, friendly, sensitive, intelligent, and has a willingness to please. They are an 'in-your-pocket' type of horse. At the same time, they can get a little too overbearing so it's important to establish manners and safe boundaries early (like with any horse). And to continuously reinforce those borders as they may try occasionally to test those boundaries.
As they are very smart, they tend to learn things quickly and may become bored. So, they may require a little bit more push or motivation to get started and/or to keep moving. One might also look at it as a bit of laziness. But, in my experience, it seems like they just need a new challenge.
Otherwise, it could also very well fall back into their physiology. They need continuous exercise and conditioning over a period of several months to build up and maintain their stamina. Their body physiology will change with the continued conditioning in order to accommodate the areas of need - the muscles, heart and lung should become more efficient. Long periods of rest will begin to allow the physiology to revert to its previous state prior to conditioning/exercise. So, it's very important to maintain their exercise regimen.
Friesians also tend to be more stoic than other breeds - meaning they may not always exhibit symptoms or other problems up front (such as colic). This is a fairly frequent trait I hear other Friesian horse owners point out. So, it may be important to investigate those smaller behavioral changes that may have otherwise been ignored.
But, overall, they are an awesome breed of horse. Easy-going, simple, willing to please and love their people. My visitors are very drawn to them because they are very striking and beautiful horses. With their dramatic, fairy-tale appearance, a rich black coat, the long hair, feathering, and big trot. And people are completely blown away at how sweet-natured and personable they are. The Friesian community is very knowledgeable and helpful if you'd like to find out more. Social media, such as Facebook groups, are a great place to start!
As they are very smart, they tend to learn things quickly and may become bored. So, they may require a little bit more push or motivation to get started and/or to keep moving. One might also look at it as a bit of laziness. But, in my experience, it seems like they just need a new challenge.
Otherwise, it could also very well fall back into their physiology. They need continuous exercise and conditioning over a period of several months to build up and maintain their stamina. Their body physiology will change with the continued conditioning in order to accommodate the areas of need - the muscles, heart and lung should become more efficient. Long periods of rest will begin to allow the physiology to revert to its previous state prior to conditioning/exercise. So, it's very important to maintain their exercise regimen.
Friesians also tend to be more stoic than other breeds - meaning they may not always exhibit symptoms or other problems up front (such as colic). This is a fairly frequent trait I hear other Friesian horse owners point out. So, it may be important to investigate those smaller behavioral changes that may have otherwise been ignored.
But, overall, they are an awesome breed of horse. Easy-going, simple, willing to please and love their people. My visitors are very drawn to them because they are very striking and beautiful horses. With their dramatic, fairy-tale appearance, a rich black coat, the long hair, feathering, and big trot. And people are completely blown away at how sweet-natured and personable they are. The Friesian community is very knowledgeable and helpful if you'd like to find out more. Social media, such as Facebook groups, are a great place to start!
Why are Friesians so expensive?
I've read quite a bit of comments noting that Friesians are too expensive (and have too many health issues .. but we will get into that later). Many people can't justify spending several thousands of dollars on a horse, especially on a type that hits five figures even as a foal.
The finest breeders around the world are very methodical and careful about which horses they breed and to whom. Many have to consider linear score sheets, inbreeding coefficients, kinship percentage .. all to find the best possible match to produce the best quality foals possible.
Health, longevity, and conformation are at the forefront to ensure the onward success and prosperity of the breed. Approved stallions are put through rigorous training and examined carefully by Dutch judges who train for years to find only the best quality.
Here's a very simplistic breakdown of some of the things to consider and influencers behind the prices. This is by no means a complete list:
The finest breeders around the world are very methodical and careful about which horses they breed and to whom. Many have to consider linear score sheets, inbreeding coefficients, kinship percentage .. all to find the best possible match to produce the best quality foals possible.
Health, longevity, and conformation are at the forefront to ensure the onward success and prosperity of the breed. Approved stallions are put through rigorous training and examined carefully by Dutch judges who train for years to find only the best quality.
Here's a very simplistic breakdown of some of the things to consider and influencers behind the prices. This is by no means a complete list:
- PEDIGREE/QUALITY: Like many other breeds, the better and more successful the horse and horse's offspring, conformation and performance scores - the higher the cost. In Friesians, a main studbook horse is going to cost more than a B-Book II horse. Or an approved stallion is going to cost more than a ster stallion. A 1e premie horse is going to cost more than a 3e premie horse. A full-papered filly may cost more than a non-full papered filly. All of these factors can influence the price.
- IMPORTING: There aren't that many Friesians in the world yet, especially when compared to breeds like Arabians, Quarter horses, and Thoroughbreds. Most estimates I've seen are between 70,000 to 80,000 individuals which includes other registries other than the KFPS. And most Friesians still reside in the Netherlands, so they need to be imported. Not only do you have the cost of the horse itself, but you are also looking for the cost of a pre-purchase exams and veterinary paperwork for importing, cost of transport, cost of quarantine, then cost of transport to the home stable. Then, there may be fees associated to change ownership on the horse's registration papers. Many of these horses are also insured, especially while in transport.
- DOMESTIC (U.S.A.-BRED) FOALS: While you may be purchasing a horse born in the U.S, somewhere at some point there was a horse or several that needed to be imported. And with there not being many options for bloodlines in the U. S, breeders have to be very cautious to make sure they retain low inbreeding coefficients, which are now also being calculated out to 6 generations. There's also kinship numbers to consider, the higher the kinship the more an approved stallion is related to the Friesian population. Lower kinship is ideal. But what if those low kinship stallions don't match well with the mare? And then one would need to weigh the options on frozen vs. cooled semen, if the mare is maiden or has she foaled before and if the mare has settled/not settled under a certain type. So now, there was not only the cost of the mare (and consider if she was she imported), but there's the cost of the breeding itself, booking fees, shipping fees, and many use an equine reproduction veterinarian that is familiar with Friesians. Continued mare care throughout pregnancy and delivery. After the foal is born and up to weanling age, it is usually microchipped and taken to its first keuring alongside its dam, so consider transportation and entry fees. And if the foal placed high (1e premie) can add for a higher asking price. Depending on where you are buying from, you will most likely encounter more registration, transportation, and veterinary fees to get the young horse to your home. If it's an intact colt, are you going to keep it intact for a stallion or prefer to geld? (Some breeders do have a 'geld' option prior to sale of a colt.)
- DOMESTIC (U.S.A.-BRED) ADULTS: (In addition to 3.) Consider how much training the horse has if any. If it has attended a keuring. And if it received a premium or predicate, or maybe it was moved into the main studbook. What if the sire lost his approval status? If the horse has full papers (unbroken maternal line of either Ster, Kroon, or Model mares in a minimum of 4 generations) or full pedigree (unbroken maternal line of either Ster, Kroon, or Model mares of 3 generations). If it is a mare and does she have predicates, if she's pregnant, and by which stallion.
So how can you get a relatively 'cheap' Friesian?
1. Purchase in-utero: The biggest downside is obviously if the foal dies shortly after birth or is aborted. Many in-utero contracts will have some level of protection for the buyer. Another downside is if you have a preference as to a filly or colt, mother nature decides. And time, of course. There will be down time up until gestation, birth and weaning and prior to doing any sort of major activities or riding for several years. But if you are in no big hurry, it's a great way to reduce some cost.
2. Purchase a weanling: Again, there's always a concern if something happens to the horse prior to weaning and making it to your home. Or something happening over the years they are growing up with you. And you still have several years of wait time prior to doing any sort of major activities or riding. The nice thing about a weanling is you have a clean slate of a horse to work with and can spend the next several years bonding and training them.
3. Purchase an older horse/unbreedable mare/etc: Sometimes you can find someone looking to re-home an older Friesian for a reduced price. Or the owner may have fallen on hard times or maybe they have a breeding operation and need to make room. Whatever the reason, keep in mind, these horses may have injuries or ailments that make them no longer rideable or breedable. But if you're just looking for a Friesian for companionship, these horses are still a really a great find. The Fenway Foundation is y=the mecca for Friesian horse rescue and rehabilitation.
Are Friesians really full of health problems?
Like many other 'purebred' breeds of animals (i.e: horses, dogs, commercial pigs, etc.), Friesians can be pre-dispositioned to a set of potential health conditions. That's not to say they are not healthy animals. There are thousands upon thousands of healthy Friesian horses in the world. My hope is that through continued research, the Friesian will have testing similar to that as the "5-panel" that they do for Quarter horses . These health conditions are NOT limited to the Friesian horse:
Successful research has led to genetic testing to identify carriers:
Research has begun to locate the genetic underlyers responsible for these issues:
Other:
Successful research has led to genetic testing to identify carriers:
- Dwarfism: Friesians with dwarfism have normal-sized heads and long bodies, full chest with extremely short limbs
- Hydrocephalus: Is a term used to describe the build-up of spinal fluid inside the brain. The fluid increases and created pressure in the skull leading to numerous adverse conditions. Also known as "water-head."
Research has begun to locate the genetic underlyers responsible for these issues:
- Aortic rupture: This is a bursting of the largest artery in the body of the horse
- Megaesophagus: The enlargement of the throat which makes it hard to swallow can cause the horse to choke
Other:
- Chronic Progressive Lymphedema: A condition caused by a buildup of lymph fluid in the lower legs that result in progressive swelling with associated skin folds, nodules and ulcerations.
- Digestive system disorders: Are more prone to suffer colic and other gastrointestinal disorders than other breeds. As found in some Friesian health literature, these issues may be influenced by increased elasticity or collagen issues in this breed (which may also be a contributor to the aortic rupture & megaesophagus defects).
- Distichiasis: An abnormality of eyelash growth that results in the potential for eyelashes to irritate and abrade the cornea of the eye.
- Equine polysaccharide storage myopathy: This is a disorder that exhibits signs similar to colic in extreme cases. It is a lack of glycogen in the muscles. It can be successfully treated with diet on occasion.
- Hypersensitivity to insect bites: Can have an extreme reaction to insect bites such as mosquitoes and horseflies. The hypersensitivity is intense, leading to hair loss and skin damage of the mane, tail, head, and stomach. In some horses, the skin damage is severe enough to render the horse unusable for prolonged periods.
- Pastern dermatopathy: A skin disease in the pastern area, especially the area of the feathers.
Are Friesians easy or hard keepers?
It can vary greatly from horse to horse - like any other breed. Their life stage, health, hay quality, types of grains or supplements, and activity level. The general consensus seems to be that they are easy keepers.
Why did they change the Friesians' build?
"I prefer the old, Baroque type!" I'll admit, I do love those big, beautiful, heavy-bodied Friesians.. But if you look at some of the very oldest photos, Friesians have morphed back and forth between heavier and lighter builds frequently. Much of that would have been influenced by what was popular or what purpose the horse was needing to fulfill during that time - such as when the Friesian was being used in agriculture. Ergo, a heavier horse was preferred to pull a plow and so the build became one thicker. This change was needed so the breed could be competitive with other breeds - such as the Bovenlander.
These days, we are beginning to see the Friesian pushed into a more sporty or "modern" style. But that's not to say that this form, at one point in history, hasn't already existed. These horses were performing in haute école during the 17th century - a build that most likely wasn't that of a heavy built, draft type horse. But rest assured, there are champions for all the builds of this dynamic breed. I doubt this type would ever go away completely.
These days, we are beginning to see the Friesian pushed into a more sporty or "modern" style. But that's not to say that this form, at one point in history, hasn't already existed. These horses were performing in haute école during the 17th century - a build that most likely wasn't that of a heavy built, draft type horse. But rest assured, there are champions for all the builds of this dynamic breed. I doubt this type would ever go away completely.
Are Friesians high-maintenance?
Like other breeds with feathering, such as Irish Cobs, Shires, and Clydesdales, they can be. Horses with long hair and lots of feathering may require extra care and maintenance. You want to make sure the hair is kept clean and dry to prevent bacteria, fungus, and parasites (such as mites) from taking over. Of course, you can certainly trim or shave off all the hair if that's what suits you and your horse, especially if it's a constant, recurring issue.
Why do people keep crossing Friesians with other breeds?
The Friesian is well-known for its docile temperament. I know of several people who have mentioned that crossing it with another 'hotter' breed dials it down. It makes the horse much easier to work with.
Also, maybe some people don't want the expense of buying a purebred Friesian, but they like the look, temperament, or whatever it may be. Or perhaps they are concerned about some of the potential health issues that a purebred can have. While there can be the argument that genetic robustness is added with crosses, there is never any guarantee that all crosses are free from genetic issues. I'm sure there's a plethora of other reasons, too.
Also, maybe some people don't want the expense of buying a purebred Friesian, but they like the look, temperament, or whatever it may be. Or perhaps they are concerned about some of the potential health issues that a purebred can have. While there can be the argument that genetic robustness is added with crosses, there is never any guarantee that all crosses are free from genetic issues. I'm sure there's a plethora of other reasons, too.