Lena on choosing a Fjord horse

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How do I choose a reputable Fjord breeder?

Dear Lena -- I am looking at buying a Fjord. Though I am in the initial stages of researching the breed, I have visited a farm with Fjords. I am looking for a cart horse, not a riding horse. The owner has several that I liked (who wouldn't though?) I have a few questions. One, how do I choose a reputable breeder of Fjords? --Elsa

Hello, Elsa! -- How to know if a breeder is reputable??? A good question. I guess I would say ask for some references, and talk with some of the folks that have bought horses from this breeders. Use common sense when you are looking at their farm -- is it well kept and clean, are the animals in good condition, do they have a worming schedule and a regular farrier routine? Ask what their goal is for their breeding program, and what are they breeding for? Do they have their stock evaluated? Has their stallion been evaluated by the NFHR? If not, why?

You could ask others in the Fjord world their opinion on a specific breeder as well. If possible, go back a second time to look at that horse -- typically you'll catch things you might have overlooked the first time. Trust your instincts, and don't be afraid to ask questions. Most Fjord owners want their horse to go to the right person. It's a leap of faith sometimes buying a horse. I am GLAD you are looking at Fjords! --Lena

Should I buy an older Fjord?

Dear Lena -- The breeder I visited had several horses for sale. I liked two of the horses she showed me, but they are young. She would be interested in selling their mom, but the mare is 18 years old and pregnant. So, the question is, what is the average lifespan of a Fjord? And can I use this 18 year old mare to cart with if she's healthy? And the last question, will I likely have problems with foaling on an 18 year old mare? Thanks! --Elsa

Hello, Elsa! -- What a GREAT question about OLDER Fjords -- just how old is old? I'd like to start off by saying those OLDER horses are worth their weight in gold if they have been properly trained and taken care of! You should easily be able to take that mare into her mid 20's and enjoy her with light riding and or driving. Eighteen is not too old to have a healthy foal. As long as she is properly cared for, she should be fine.

Fjords easily will live up until they are 30. Many will go past that.
Around 25 they most likely will shows signs of slowing down, arthritis, etc. Most of the time the best thing to do is to keep lightly using them, keeping them with a job is the best thing for their minds and body. "Don't use it -- you lose it" works with people and animals. --Lena

Dear Lena -- How many Fjords might you expect to be at the Blue Earth Fjord Horse Show? If I attended, would there be anyway I could contact owners to inquire if they have any of their horses for sale? Thank you. --Lynn

Hello, Lynn! -- The 2010 Fjord Horse Show in Blue Earth, Minnesota, had around 90 Fjord horses and was WONDERFUL. It was the show's 25th anniversary, and there was even a special Tuesday evening performance "Fjords Got Talent" and, boy, do they ever! Really was a terrific week of Fjords. I hope you find your Fjord, he / she is out there!

There are usually some Fjords for sale every year at the show. Look for "For sale" signs on the stalls; they will have the owner's contact info. Now that the show is over, you might also check the For Sale ads and Fjord breeders list on our website. --Lena