Although the Icelandic horse is not tall compared to other horse breeds it is both strong and has good stamina. Its temperament is steady and it´s nerves are calmer than of many of its bigger colleagues. The Icelandic horse is not very sensitive, but a well trained horse is sensitive to the aids of the rider.
What usually charms onlookers is the free expression and brave outlook that symbolizes the Icelandic gæðingur.
The different gaits make the horse exciting, but at the same time a more complicated task than a three gaited horse.
Many horse breeds are specialized and have been trained to perform certain things, i.e. the Lippizzan horses used in the Spanish riding school in Vienna. The Lippizzaner is bred with great collection in mind and the breeding goal takes note of that when it comes to its conformation. The Standardbred in America is bred to race in front of a sulky and its conformation is molded to fit that role.
The Icelandic horse should be able to master both, great collection as well as much extension. Many foreign horsemen think that a lot of demands are place on this little horse.
On sub pages to the left of the screen you can find information and articles on the Icelandic horse.