About Haflinger's
The trademarks of the modern Haflinger are it's disposition and versatility. Years of careful breeding and resulted in a small, sturdy, sure-footed horse that does well on minimal pasture, is hardy to illness and bad weather and has a dependable, affectionate temperament. The combination of these breed traits makes the Haflinger ultimately suitable for all equine disciplines - truly the all around family horse. This breed is equally at home doing farm work or dressage, driving competitions or jumping, therapeutic riding or calf-roping. It is strong enough to be a comfortable mount for adults as well as an attractive addition to any pasture.
The Haflinger's chestnut coloring ranges from light blond to dark chocolate, with thick white or flaxen mares and tails. They vary in height from 13-15 hands and weigh from 800-1300 pounds. They are well muscled, with a powerful build, sturdy bone and large hooves. The overall impression is of a breed of exceptional conformation and beauty, with a kind eye, and intelligent expression and a bearing of great vitality and nobility.
The Haflinger is an old breed of small horse that originated in the Tyrolean mountains of Austria. Originally the family farm horse of the peasants who resided in this region, the Haflinger was called upon to perform reliably, capably and cheerfully under harsh conditions. Whether the job was to plow steep fields, provide transportation in the worst winter storm, pack heavy loads or pull fallen trees, the Haflinger did (and still does) it all.
Selective breeding has been undertaken since 1874 when the foundation sire of this breed, "Folie" was born, the result of a cross between an Arabian stallion and a refined native Tyrolean draft mare. All purebred Haflingers trace their lineage to this stallion.