Haflinger

Haflinger

The Haflinger, also known as the Avelignese, is a breed of horse developed in Austria and northern Italy during the late 19th century. The breed traces its ancestry to the Middle Ages; several theories for its origin exist. Haflingers have many uses, including light draft, harness work, and various under-saddle disciplines.

About Haflinger in brief

Summary HaflingerThe Haflinger, also known as the Avelignese, is a breed of horse developed in Austria and northern Italy during the late 19th century. Haflinger horses are relatively small, are always chestnut with flaxen mane and tail, have distinctive gaits described as energetic but smooth, and are well-muscled yet elegant. The breed traces its ancestry to the Middle Ages; several theories for its origin exist. Haflingers have many uses, including light draft, harness work, and various under-saddle disciplines such as endurance riding, dressage, equestrian vaulting, and therapeutic riding. In 2003, a Haflinger became the first horse to be cloned, resulting in a filly named Prometea. The name \”Haflinger\” comes from the village of Hafling, which today is in northern Italy. As of 2005, almost 250,000 Haflingers existed worldwide. The height of the breed has increased since the end of World War II, when it stood an average of 13. 3 hands. The desired height today is between 13. 2 and 15. 0 hands. Breeders are discouraged from breeding horses under the minimum size, but taller individuals may pass inspection if they otherwise meet requirements of the Breed registry. The Haflinger has rhythmic, ground-covering gaits. The walk is relaxed but energetic. The trot and canter are elastic, energetic, and athletic with a natural tendency to be light on the forehand and balanced. The neck is of medium length, the withers are pronounced, the shoulders sloping, and the chest deep.

The legs are clean, with broad, flat knees and powerful hocks showing clear definition of tendons and ligaments. The back is medium-long and muscular; the croup is long, slightly sloping,. The leg action is seen and the canter has a very distinct motion forwards and upwards. A half temperament, the half temperament has the half of the 20 temperament, has become part of official breed standards. Some sources recognize two types of Haflinger types, a heavier type used for draft work and a lighter type for pleasure riding, light, driving, and under-Saddle competition. However, all breeders today trace their lineage through one of seven bloodlines. The World Haflinger Federation, the international governing body that controls breed standards, is made up of a confederation of 22 national registries, and helps set breeding objectives, guidelines, and rules for its member organizations. In 2007, only 13 of the latter existed, including only one stallion used in Italy, although as of 2007, there were only 13 stallions used as existing in Italy. All Haflinger organizations recognize only one type of stallion, and only one breed register is used, although all breed organizations recognize both types and one type used in pleasure riding and pleasure competition. The world Haflinger federation recognizes both an \”Avelignesse\” and an\”Avelizionale Tradionale.