Submitted by: Kathy C.
www.horsedrivensite.net
It was love at first sight nine years ago when I first saw a team of Haflingers while at a Christmas tree farm searching for that perfect tree. The flaxen mane and tail, the quiet disposition, the work ethic caught my eye. Shortly thereafter I was in the market for a Haflinger that was trained to drive and to ride, and the rest is history. I’ve owned a Halinger gelding for 8 years now, and each year has been a treat as he continually surpises me with his intelligence, his curiosity and his kindness.
Avelignese
This is the alternate name for Haflingers which were developed in Austria and Northern Italy in the 1800s. The Italian word for the town Hafling is Avelegno. Haflingers are well muscled and perform well during light draft work, endurance riding and in various under saddle disciplines. My husband who is a new rider placed in his first novice endurance competition riding our Haflinger.
History
The origins of the breed may date back to the Middle Ages. One theory is that they are descedents of the prehistoric Forest Horse. The breed developed in a mountainous area where they had to be able to survive harsh conditions. This is why Haflingers are described as “easy keepers”, their ancestors lived on alpine brush. This would explain why it takes very little food to keep a Haflinger healthy, and the biggest challenge is to keep weight down and to avoid overfeeding.
My Golden Boy
Haflingers may range in color from light gold to chesnut to liver. The mane and the tail are usually flaxen and abundant. I’ve joked that my Halinger has more hair products than I do. He has a double mane which is very attractive and I must admit lots of work. He’s just downright handsome and gets lots of complements on trail. Now that winter is approaching he looks like he’s wearing a mohair jacket; I love all that fur and winter is no problem for a Haflinger. I tried only once to blanket him and found the blanket in the corner of the stall, buckles intact, like some Great Houdini.
Moving Out
Haflingers can cover lots of ground at the extended trot which is amazing to watch. My Fox Trotter must canter to keep up. Whether in front of a cart or under saddle, Haflingers love to work and love to move. They were used during WWII as pack horses for the military. A few years ago we were involved in a WWII reenactment and I realized the importance of this breed in getting supplies through the mountains.
Happy Campers
There are always exceptions in any breed, but for the most part, Haflingers have great dispositions and love to be part of many diverse activities. They are popular in therapeutic riding programs because they are gentle with the kids. Most are sturdy enough for adult riders, and they have done well in the show ring in both Western and Hunt seat competitions.
If you are looking for a horse for both riding and driving, consider the Haflinger. There are many fine breeders in the USA, There are seven stallion lines from which to choose (A,B,M,N,S,ST and W) Take the time to meet a Halinger in person; it will capture your heart.
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