Haflinger Horse: Breed Profile

During World War II, the Haflinger was bred to be short and stocky, but since then the breeding focus has shifted to developing versatile horses that can be both ridden and driven, reflecting the modern breed traits common today.

Thanks to its versatility, the Haflinger performs and succeeds in many different activities. It’s a popular dressage, jumping, and Western show horse. It’s strong and sturdy enough to serve as a vaulting or packing mount. It also excels in pleasure driving, endurance riding, and trail riding. Its gentle temperament and people-loving personality make it ideal for therapeutic riding programs, too.

Colors and Markings

This breed is known for its golden chestnut coat and cream- or white-colored mane and tail. The Haflinger’s coat can range from light gold to a darker chestnut or liver chestnut. Many Haflingers also have white points on their lower legs and faces.

Unique Characteristics of the Haflinger

The Haflinger has many unique characteristics. It’s known for its strength and compact build, which offer many advantages. A single Haflinger can carry adults and compete in many disciplines, but that same horse is also well-suited and well-sized to carry children, too. Haflingers are known for being people-oriented and for having laid-back temperaments. A quiet, kind nature has become a breed standard requirement and is checked during official inspections.1 They’re ideal family horses, thanks to their temperaments and versatility.

Diet and Nutrition

Most Haflingers are easy keepers, so the key to keeping them healthy is in a carefully selected and controlled diet. Most of these horses need little or no grain, but if a Haflinger’s workload requires it to have grain, it’s important to choose a low-sugar and low-starch option. Haflingers also require little hay, so feeding hay in a slow feeder can help the portions last longer.