| Is the Halfinger a pony or a horse? After all, they only | | | | allows for quite a range of hues. Some are more |
| stand between thirteen and fifteen hands high. And we | | | | blonde while others are closer to chocolate. In any |
| all know that once an equine stands below 14.2 hands, | | | | case, their white manes and tails set off their darker |
| it's no longer a horse - it's a pony. | | | | coat. The mane of a true Haflinger will fall naturally to |
| Good luck selling that to a fanatical Haflinger owner. | | | | either side of its graceful neck. |
| They'll tell you - and rightfully so - that there's nothing | | | | These days, Haflingers tend to be divided into a couple |
| small about Haflingers. Natives of the Alps on the | | | | of groups. First you find the heavier Haflinger - the one |
| border between Austria and Italy, evolution and | | | | whose appearance is more "drafty." This is the strain |
| geography have combined to make these horses | | | | that you'll find dragging logs through the snow of |
| some of the most hardworking horses in the world. | | | | Vermont or plowing a corn field in Pennsylvania Dutch |
| Indeed, their blend of pleasant demeanor and hearty | | | | country. Like Haflingers of old, these horses are |
| endurance are the very characteristics that make | | | | devoted to work. |
| them so beloved to those who know them. | | | | But the other type is equally true to its equine roots. |
| Their bodies are easily recognized. On the front end, | | | | The so-called pleasure Haflinger can be a calm and |
| they have elegant heads that are generally considered | | | | quiet lesson horse or even a high level dressage |
| to be derived from their early connection to Arabian | | | | competitor. Remember, notwithstanding its power, |
| horses. Their wide eyes reflect the animal's native | | | | Haflingers are also smart and athletic. |
| intelligence. Spend a few minutes studying their faces | | | | But above all, the Haflinger is a kind horse - their |
| and you'll quickly understand why people consider | | | | evolution has never not included human beings. They |
| them smart and gentle companions. | | | | have a knack for being the perfect equine companion |
| On the other hand, their rear quarters are stocky and | | | | and readily adapt to almost any situation. Cheerful, |
| muscular. In Austria, Haflingers were often referred to | | | | reliable - what's not to like? |
| as "peasants in the rear." This is where their legendary | | | | Ask anyone in the know - this is a horse breed with |
| strength and drive most readily shows itself. | | | | personality and quality to burn. |
| Haflingers tend to be chestnut in color, though this | | | | |