The Haflinger may be a little horse, but it’s a sturdy one! Known for its attractive appearance and excellent disposition, the Haflinger excels at many types of driving disciplines, pleasure riding, lower-level dressage, and jumping and eventing. The Haflinger is also an excellent family horse.
The Haflinger horse originates in the Tyrolian alps of southern Austria and northern Italy, and is thought to be a cross between an Arab-type horse and native mountain ponies. Because they were situated in a mountainous region with natural barriers, the Haflinger remained apart from—and was not crossed with—other horses for many years. It wasn’t until a stallion was sent as a wedding present to Louis of Brandenburg in 1342 that the breed as we know it today began to develop.
Today’s Haflinger stands between 13 and 15 hands, and is some shade of chestnut or sorrel with a while or flaxen mane and tail. Haflingers have beautiful heads but very sturdy backsides. It is this combination of beauty and brawn that allows them to excel not only in the show ring, but also in the field and on steep mountain terrain.
Haflinger horses helped out on Tyrolean farms long after the tractor became a popular method of getting things done. Basically, Tyrolean farmers thought their special horse was more suitable—and more efficient—on their steep mountain farms. Haflingers lived in “stalls” underneath the farm’s main living area, and were a big part of family life in the Tyrolean Alps. Because of this, only horses with exceptional temperaments were bred. This is perhaps why today’s Haflinger has such a wonderful, gentle temperament!
The Haflinger breed did its part during World War II as well. Haflingers served as military pack horses, and breeders began to breed the horses so that they were sturdier with more draft-like qualities. After the war the Austrian government took over the breeding, and returned to a more refined type. Many people believe that the breed is so consistent today because of the Austrian’s stringent breeding selection process.
Haflingers came to the United States in the 1960s, and originally settled in Washington and Illinois. Today, you can find Haflingers throughout the United States, although they are a particular favorite of the Amish who appreciate them for their ability to work a farm.
Today there are two distinct types of Haflinger: one is a heavier draft type used for farm work, while other is a leaner, leggier, longer-necked type appreciated in the show ring. Haflingers have beautiful, ground-covering gaits with little knee action, so the second type is preferred in eventing, driving, and in the lower levels of dressage.
Another great thing about Haflingers is their long life span. They commonly live into their forties, and remain strong, sound, and useful for most of their lives. Haflingers mature more slowly than other breeds of horses, and are often not put into work until they are four years old.
According to the American Haflinger Registry, about 18,000 horses are now registered in North America, with about 2,000 foals registered each year.
