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What is a Haflinger?
Haflingers are an older breed of horse that can be traced back to the Middle Ages. They originated in Austria's Tyroleon mountains and are named after the village of Hafling, an area known for its rugged climate. Villagers used these sure-footed horses for their farm work, daily transportation and to traverse the steep, narrow mountain paths. In 1868 the half-Arabian stallion El Bedavi was used to enrich the breed. In 1874, he sired 249 Folie who became the foundation sire of the Haflinger breed as we know it today. Not only has the Haflinger retained the strength, power and resilience of their hardy mountain ancestors, but they also possess the elegant and noble features of the Arab.
The first Haflingers were imported from Austria to North America in 1958 by Tempel Smith, of Tempel Farms in Illinois, where he began a successful breeding program along with his imported Lippizzan horses. They are now one of the most sought-after breeds in North America. Today's Haflinger can be found in both the old style draft type and the taller, more refined modern type. Most Haflingers range in size from 52-59 inches and can weigh between 800-1300 pounds. Their appearance is elegant and harmonious, with a refined, expressive head and slightly dished face. They have large eyes, small ears, a strong arched neck and a well sprung body. Their gates are rhythmatic and ground covering. Haflingers are known for their beautiful chestnut coloring, ranging in shades from very light blonde to a chocolate color, solid or with dappling. They are striking with their long thick flowing manes and tails which can come in shades of white to flaxen. Colts are named after the same beginning letter as their sire, and fillies after the same beginning letter as their dam. There are seven stallion lines in the Haflinger breed (A, B, M, N, S, ST, W), and several more mare lines.
Haflingers are known for their friendliness, intelligence and willingness to please. They are easy to train and capable of doing the work of much larger horses, with a lower level of care and maintenance. They are easy keepers, are long-lived and make excellent mounts for children and adults; particularly for first-time horse owners. If you are looking for a horse that is good-natured, safe and beautiful, the "Golden Horse of Austria" is sure to capture your heart!
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