Friesians are beautiful, majestic horses with a captivating allure that has made them a popular feature in films. These equines are well-behaved, intelligent, and willing to please their handlers. In addition, they make excellent companion animals because they are people-oriented and tend to bond strongly with their owners. They also excel in many equine activities and make great companions for horse lovers of all levels of expertise. However, as with any animal, there are certain issues that you need to be aware of before bringing home a friesian. For example, this breed has a genetic predisposition to certain medical conditions, and they also require specialized grooming.
In the past, Friesians were used for work on farms and for pulling carriages. Their powerful bodies and calm demeanor made them ideal for these purposes. This tradition continues today with a growing interest in the breed for carriage driving and dressage. The popularity of Friesians as show horses has led to a growth in breeding programs that aim to enhance the characteristics that distinguish the breed. This has also helped increase the number of friesian stallions and mares, which has increased their value.
These magnificent creatures are usually black, although you will sometimes see chestnut Friesians. They have a thick, flowing mane and tail that are usually wavy, adding to their overall allure. You will also notice that they have a sloping shoulder and a long, arched neck. These traits were largely due to the introduction of Arabian and Andalusian blood to the original Friesian horses in the 16th and 17th centuries.
Another common trait of the Friesians is their high limb action, which is a result of their long backs and disproportionately short limbs. This gives the breed a unique appearance that has earned them the nickname “horse of heaven.”
While these horses are generally considered healthy, they do have a higher susceptibility to genetic disorders such as dwarfism and hydrocephalus. They are also prone to digestive disorders and skin conditions. Therefore, regular veterinary checkups and proper nutrition are important for the health of these gorgeous animals.
If you are considering buying a friesian, you should know that they are typically very expensive. A purebred stallion can cost up to $100,000, and a top-rated mare can sell for even more money. However, you should keep in mind that the price of a frysian is not necessarily a reflection of its quality. The prices of the horses vary based on their gender, age, and performance record.
Unlike most other breeds, Friesians are able to pass their genes down to their foals. This makes them one of the few horse breeds that can do this. However, if you want to have a friesian foal, you should keep in mind that it will not be a purebred unless it is registered in an official studbook.
While some Friesians may have white markings, they are not considered true Friesians since the registries only allow a small star on the forehead for purebred registration. This is not to say that you can’t find a friesian with white markings, but you should be careful about whether or not they are truly a purebred before committing to owning one.