Friesian Horses: History, Appearance and Uses

The Characteristics of Friesian Horses

The History and Origin of Friesian Horses

The history of the Friesian horse begins in the 16th century. During this time, the Netherlands was occupied by the Spanish. In the province of Friesland, which has given the Friesian horse its name ever since, the rather cold-blooded regional horse type was crossed with the Iberian horses of the Spanish for the first time. This crossbreeding gave rise to the Friesian horses we know today.

Initially, Friesian horses were used as workhorses due to their stature and size. However, their proud and graceful conformation quickly made them popular as majestic carriage horses that pulled the elegant carriages of stately homes.

In the 19th century, the demand for Friesian horses fell so sharply that there were only 3 Friesian stallions left in 1913. It is only thanks to dedicated breeders that we can still enjoy these special horses today. An advertising campaign saved the Frisian horse breed from further decline. With a parade in Warkum on the IJsselmeer, the last passionate Frisian lovers made the breed known and sought after beyond the Dutch borders again. What was Warkum at the end of the 1960s is now the stallion licensing in Leeuwaarden. Every year, Friesian breeders and fans eagerly await the selection presented there, which today is more reminiscent of a warmblood with lots of pasterns and a long mane. The sporty Friesian type is more in demand than ever. The studbook founded in 1879 has been closed and the Friesian horses are bred exclusively through pure breeding of the remaining population.

Friesian Horses in Focus: Prominent Examples

The impressive and fairytale-like appearance of the Friesian makes this breed a popular movie and show horse. It is rare for a movie involving horses not to feature a Friesian. Friesians have already appeared in successful films such as The Chronicles of Narnia, Snow White and the Huntsman, Eragon and The Hunger Games. But Friesians are also a popular horse breed in horse shows such as Cavalluna or the Hop Top Show.

The most famous Friesian horse is  Frederik the Great. The Friesian stallion now lives in the USA and was unofficially named the most beautiful horse in the worldin 2016.

The Breeding of Friesian Horses in Germany

In 1979, the "Friesenpferde - Zuchtverband e.V." was founded in Mönchengladbach and registered with the Mönchengladbach District Court. 

Günter Fröhlich, also known as the "Friesian Pope", made a name for the Friesian black horse beauties in Germany. He imported the Friesian stallion Douwe 249 to Germany in 1977 and presented the breed with him at numerous trade fairs. He was at home in Krefeld, where the first mare and foal registrations were carried out under the sovereignty of the Dutch studbook (F.P.S.). 

As a result, the number of followers of this breed increased and more and more Friesian horses were bred in Germany. In 1985, the then managing director Friedrich Grotepaß endeavored to have the FPZV recognized as an independent breeding association for Friesian horses in Germany. 

From 1987, breeding shows were organized at several locations in Germany and a stallion licensing event was held for the first time. The first FPZV stallion performance test also took place in 1987. In 1992, the FPZV received its final state recognition after a three-year probationary period and further review of its activities. In 1993, the FPZV was accepted as a member association of the German Equestrian Federation (FN) breeding department. The quality of the mares presented for breeding increased from year to year. In order for Friesian stallions to be officially recognized for breeding, three-year-old stallions must reach a minimum height of 158 cm and four-year-old stallions 160 cm.

Today, Friesian breeding is based on the four stallion lines: Mark 232 - ancestor of the stallion of the century Jasper 366, Jarich 226 - ancestor of the "Tetmann line", Ritske 202 - forefather of the sporty Friesian types, and Age 168 - now the smallest line still in existence. Breeders must pay particular attention to the inbreeding factor and the degree of relationship due to this close lineage.

Friesian Horses in Today's World

The majestic appearance of Friesian horses and their extraordinary beauty have found a large fan base in Europe. Their imposing appearance, wavy long hair and shiny black coat give them the nickname "black pearls". However, breeding these elegant, exclusively black animals also has its challenges, as many of them have a closely intertwined genetic make-up. Therefore, it is necessary to specify the degree of inbreeding to avoid mating horses that are too closely related and to minimize the spread of health problems caused by inbreeding.

In recent years, Friesian horses have become the stars in the world of horse shows. These majestic animals are represented in almost every type of equestrian event and particularly shine in classical and baroque horsemanship. Additionally, they can also be seen more frequently in dressage sport, where they impress with their elegance and expressiveness.

For dedicated leisure riders, Friesian horses are reliable instructors who can provide a great deal of pleasure in various riding disciplines. They are also popular draught horses for driving and are often used as carriage horses for special occasions such as weddings and other events to add a special touch to the ambience.

Care and Keeping of Friesian Horses

Although Friesian horses appear calm and relaxed at first glance, they are characterized by an alert and eager-to-learn character. They appreciate exercise and variety and are therefore not suitable for strictly stall-based husbandry. Instead, they prefer spacious pastures and open stables. Due to their black fur, they must find sufficient shade from the intense sun in summer. The dark coat in combination with the thick, long hair can quickly become a nuisance on warm, sunny days.

If you own a Friesian horse, long rides and varied activities should be part of their daily routine to develop their full potential and promote their well-being.

Due to the abundant long hair and strong leg hair, grooming a Friesian horse requires more attention. However, this does not mean that the mane and tail should be combed regularly, on the contrary: excessive combing and washing can lead to thinning, which can take years before the mane and tail are full and long again.

To maintain the long hair properly, regular and careful hand-picking is required, and the tail should be trimmed at regular intervals to prevent trampling.

Maintaining the leg cover is just as important, and this includes regularly checking the floor covering to prevent moisture build-up, which can lead to conditions such as moulting if left untreated.

Friesian Horses: The Most Important Questions and Answers

How much does a quality Friesian cost?

A high-quality Friesian with good lineage, solid basic training, and correct conformation can cost between €12,000 and €20,000. Competition success, exceptional movement, or baroque bloodlines can increase the price further.

‍What is the average price of a Friesian?

On average, Friesians cost around €8,000 to €12,000, depending on age, training level, pedigree, and temperament. Young horses are usually more affordable than those that are under saddle or fully trained.

Is a Friesian a cold-blooded horse?

No, Friesians are officially classified as baroque horses, which belong to the warmblood type. Despite their strong build, they are not cold-blooded, but rather energetic and sensitive riding horses with a long-standing tradition.

Is a Friesian a warmblood or a cold-blood?

The Friesian is a warmblood horse, specifically a baroque breed with historical roots in classical riding. Though powerful in appearance, it shares the typical traits of warmbloods: endurance, agility, and rideability.

Can you ride Friesian horses?

Yes—Friesians are popular riding horses, especially in dressage, show riding, driving, and recreational sports. They are known for their expressive movement, good nature, and striking appearance.

Are Friesians easy to ride?

That depends on the individual horse. Many Friesians are people-oriented, eager to learn, and calm, making them suitable for less experienced riders with guidance. However, their large frame and powerful movement can be challenging for seat training.

Are white Friesians rare?

Yes—a white Friesian does not conform to the breed standard. Most Friesians are solid black, and white markings are undesirable. Rare breeding lines with cream or perlino genes can appear “white,” but they are usually not purebred Friesians.

How long do Friesian horses live?

A well-cared-for Friesian typically lives between 20 and 25 years. With appropriate care, workload, and husbandry, some can reach 30 years. Health issues like hydrocephalus or genetic defects should be avoided.

Are Friesians good for beginners?

Many Friesians are gentle, calm, and easy-going, making them suitable for motivated beginners under professional supervision. However, their size and forward drive require precise rider input, which can be overwhelming for absolute novices.

Are Friesian horses always black?

Yes—according to the breed standard, Friesians are black horses. White markings (except for a small star) are not permitted. Other colors are not found in purebred Friesians and usually indicate crossbreeding.

How big is a Friesian foal?

At birth, a Friesian foal typically measures between 110 and 120 cm. During the first year, it grows rapidly and reaches about 150–160 cm at around age three, before reaching its full height.

How heavy are Friesian horses?

An adult Friesian generally weighs between 600 and 750 kilograms, depending on sex, size, and muscle mass. Stallions and baroque types tend to be heavier than sportier lines.