HAFLINGERS - HISTORY
The Haflinger is a native pony from Austria, from the Tyrolean area of the Alps. The breed takes it’s name from the village of Hafling, which was part of Austria until relinquished to Italy at the end of World War I.
The Haflinger breed is believed to have been originated when an Arab stallion, El Bedavi II, was used to settle a local mare from Tyrol mountains with Galician origins. The resulting colt, Folie, born in 1874 ,is considered the father of the breed. Their mountain ancestry has given the Haflinger an incredible amount of stamina and perseverance, and this combined with their strength and calm nature make Haflingers ideal for trekking, trail riding and endurance riding.
Many of the villages and farms from Tyrol were accessible only by narrow paths requiring agile and sure-footed horses for transportation and packing. Artwork from the region from the early 1800's depicts a small noble chestnut horse with packs and riders traversing steep mountain trails.
During the years of World War II, there was a significant shift in breeding practices, as pack horses were needed by the military and a shorter drafter Haflinger fit the bill. Following the war, the height and refinement of the breed has returned, with an emphasis on developing a small horse that was versatile for both riding and driving, with a strong constitution, a solid conformation with substantial bone, and an uncomplicated personality.
There has always been quite close line breeding within the Haflinger, therefore the breed has a very similar type, colour and appearance.