Precious little is known about the true history of the Haflinger, although there is evidence to suggest it emerged in the Middle Ages in Hafling, Austria.
Over the years, this light draught animal has been utilised in many ways, from agricultural work to leisure riding and as a dependable war mount.
Historically, this equine lived alongside mountain farmers in the Alps who saw fit to domesticate it to take full advantage of its inherent strength and stamina, qualities that made it a great breed for working the land. General duties included ploughing, draught work, and transportation.
Because it developed in constant proximity to people, the Haflinger became both docile and easily handled. It was thanks to this that the breed was enlisted on a large scale during the course of the Second World War as a pack horse however, following the conflict, very few of these horses remained.
The Haflinger boasts an average to below average height (13-15 hands), with a sturdy, well balanced structure and well conformed legs. All Haflingers are sorrel or chestnut in colour, observed in a spectrum of shades. Today, efforts are being made to preserve the purity of the breed by restricting out-crossing, but the gene pool remains small.
In 2003, a Haflinger filly was successfully cloned from a mare skin cell, becoming the first artificially created horse foal to be born. The horse was produced by scientists and named Prometea.
![[REDACTED] [REDACTED]'s Haflinger - Pepsi](http://static1.viovet.co.uk/opt/s=kr/petphotos/3553_99fc1be580c5edb8ad27988c44c8558f.jpg)
![[REDACTED] [REDACTED]'s Haflinger - Chester](http://static1.viovet.co.uk/opt/s=kr/petphotos/15099_023030ef974c64e954bf9fa592b92be3.jpg)
I am looking after Tommy, a Haflinger (plus an Appaloosa and an Icelandic Pony). When I arrived on the farm last week, Tommy was looking underweight and was gnawing at his skin which was broken. He has hair loss as well. I've been feeding him up and he's looking a little better, but I'm concerned about his skin. Before I call a vet, I'm researching the subject for more information. Any helpful comments would be most welcome.
From Essex, United Kingdom
They are very knowing and loyal. They have mind of their own but learn very quickly. My haffy is a sweet darling and I love her very much.
From Nottinghamshire, United Kingdom
My Haffy, doesn't care for people, he'll chase them out of the field if they wander in. He looks so sweet, till his ears go back! I've owned him for over 13 years now and he's no different, other than with me. He's the best horse i've ever owned for riding, and has taught me more about horse behaviour than any other horse. You have to be strong on the ground and sympathetic in the saddle, I love this horse so much. This breed is a very special one, they understands humans pretty well, if I wasn't so old I'd have more than one. If you think you'd like one, learn natural horsemanship, without it, i'd have passed him by.
From West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
I absolutely adore this breed and never in a million years did I ever think I would actually own one. I bought her as a 14 year old nearly two years ago. Luckily for me she had been well trained before I got her. She is very much a one to one horse and we have developed a very close bond. Obviously different horses will have different temperaments, but for me she is perfect in every way. She can practically live on fresh air so I have to keep her in part of the day otherwise she will just balloon! She had laminitis in the past and so far not had it since but I do have to watch her weight. I am an older very nervous rider in my 60’s and she gives me so much confidence I actually enjoy riding again.
From East Sussex, United Kingdom
I have had Anton for 5+ years now and when I first got him it was on 2 months loan to buy off a friend. The day he arrived it was a instant connection, as if he was my soul mate :)
We gave done so much toghter and I have loved every moment with him and I can't wait to make more memories with Anton.