Last updated: 3 July 2026
Horse breeds
Icelandic horse
A small, sturdy and hardy horse known for its additional gaits.
- Origin
- Iceland
- Character
- versatile and friendly
- For beginners
- Yes, suitable
Origin
The Icelandic horse originally comes from Iceland. A small, sturdy and hardy horse known for its additional gaits. Many Icelandic horses have the tölt and some also the flying pace. Loved for reliability, toughness and comfort.
Appearance and character
In-app indicators
These are simplified app indicators, not fixed breed laws. Every horse is different.
Good for beginners?
With a gentle, people-oriented character, the Icelandic horse is often a suitable choice for beginner riders, always with good guidance.
Did you know?
The tölt is the best known gait, but not every Icelandic horse shows the flying pace equally strongly.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the Icelandic horse come from?
The Icelandic horse originally comes from Iceland. A small, sturdy and hardy horse known for its additional gaits.
What is the character of the Icelandic horse?
A small, sturdy and hardy horse known for its additional gaits. Many Icelandic horses have the tölt and some also the flying pace. Loved for reliability, toughness and comfort.
Is the Icelandic horse good for beginners?
With a gentle, people-oriented character, the Icelandic horse is often a suitable choice for beginner riders, always with good guidance.
Can I mix the Icelandic horse with another breed?
Yes. In the HorseJournal Breed Mixer you pick the Icelandic horse and a second breed, and the app creates your own dream breed with a name, a trilingual profile and an illustration.

