What do Icelandic Horses eat , Fish ?

The first Icelandic Horses were brought over to Iceland between 865- and 930 AD by early settlers called "Vikings".

These horses mostly came from England and Ireland and were called "Keltic Pony's". The Vikings crossed them with "Germanic Pony's" and therefore produced the Icelandic Horse. There are some very interesting facts about the Icelandics, including them having a liking towards fish.....

These horses mostly came from England and Ireland and were called "Keltic Pony's". The Vikings crossed them with "Germanic Pony's" and therefore "produced" the Icelandic Horse.

The Icelandic Government prohibited the import of any other horses to Iceland in the year of 930. This means, that the Icelandic Horse's bloodline stayed very pure, for over a thousand years now. Therefore, the Icelandic bloodline is the purest known to history.

The Icelandic Horse is very robust and strong. They have a short back, and are being able to carry very heavy loads for that reason. They have very thick feu all over their body, including their ears. Their mane and tales are beautiful and thick. The Icelandic Horse has a long nose and impressive eyes.

A strange fact is, that the Icelandic Horse used to actually "catch" fish and eat them. They used to walk into the shallow water and stomp the fish with their hooves. It was a great source of protein for them! Today, there are still some Icelandic Horses (usually only the ones who grew up in Iceland) who eat fish, often dried fish. They also like cod-liver oil, it is great for their skin and shiny coat.

Try a most unusual vacation in the Mad River Valley of Central Vermont. Tour its mountains, meadows and forests on one of the oldest breeds in the world. The tireless and efficient movement of the Icelandic Horse makes them the ideal saddle horse, seeming to effortlessly dance over the earth with lightness and power.

The Vermont Icelandic Horse Farm, located about an hour north of Rutland and an hour south of Burlington, is nestled in the heart of the Green Mountains. Our horses are right at home with the changing seasons of spring, summer, fall and winter. Here we are able to combine the beautiful scenic value of this area with the unique Icelandic Horse. Since 1988, we have been providing experienced equestrians as well as novices with a special experience that only the Icelandic Horse can provide.

Most known for our riding vacation packages, the Vermont Icelandic Horse Farm also has horses for sale and a small, though well thought out, breeding program. Visitors curious about learning more about the Icelandic Horse are always welcome.

So whether you want to take a riding vacation with family or friends, a short ride for something new and exciting to try, or whether you are looking to purchase a special addition to the family, the Vermont Icelandic Horse Farm can meet your needs. Our support system for first-time Icelandic Horse owners, as well as avid Icelandic Horse enthusiasts, includes finding the right horse for your needs, help and advice in selecting the right saddle and other equipment, riding instruction, and training.

We are always happy to share our admiration and knowledge about Icelandic Horses and questions are always welcome.

The Pace: Both feet on each side move simultaneously.

The Toelt: A four beat gait, at least one hoof is always in contact with the ground

It is not easy to describe the joy of riding an Icelandic Horse. It almost seams like the both of you turn into one! There is no bouncing or scooting back and forth. The rider sits perfectly comfortable, it is pure enjoyment! Your Icelandic will look beautiful, while he is running with his gorgeous mane and tale flying in the wind!

I actually know a lady, who had a bad motorcycle accident several years ago. She had always been a horse lover and was very afraid of not ever being able to ride again. Her Physician recommended buying an Icelandic Horse, because of their special, gentle gaits. She owns two now, and her husband is just as crazy over those little horses as she is.

Icelandic Horses can actually carry up to 200 pounds. Some breeders will tell you, that their Icelandic Horses can carry up to 300 pounds! Pretty impressive, since they are usually only 12-14 hands tall.

Icelandic Horses like company. If you are thinking about buying your own, please make sure that there is another Icelandic around. They enjoy the company of their own! Icelandics are easy to maintain otherwise, due to their healthy and robust nature.

They have a very lovable nature and would be an ideal addition to any family. Companionship, kindness and affection are some of their trademarks!