Haflinger

The Haflinger, also called the Avelignese in Italy, is a small mountain horse from the Tyrolean Alps of Austria and northern Italy. It is easy to recognize: all registered Haflingers are shades of chestnut with a flaxen mane and tail. The breed descends from native alpine mares and a nineteenth-century foundation line with some Arabian influence, producing a strong, sure-footed horse with a broad body, good bone, and a willing expression. Haflingers are used for riding, driving, packing, light farm work, therapeutic programs, and family recreation.

Their hardiness can mislead new keepers into overfeeding them. Haflingers often do well on moderate forage, and many need careful weight control to reduce the risk of laminitis and metabolic trouble. They are strong for their height and need the same thoughtful training as a larger horse, especially when handled by children or novice adults. Breeders pay close attention to temperament, correct legs, and the flaxen chestnut appearance, while buyers may want to compare old-style heavier lines with modern sportier Haflingers before choosing a riding or driving prospect.

Colors: Amber Champagne, Bay, Bay Dun, Bay Roan, Black, Blanket Appaloosa, Blue Roan, Brown, Buckskin, Champagne, Chestnut, Chestnut with Flaxen Mane and Tail (Light to Dark Variations), Classic Champagne, Cremello, Dun, Dun Roan, Fewspot Appaloosa, Flaxen Chestnut, Frame Overo, Gold Champagne, Gray, Grullo, Leopard Appaloosa, Liver Chestnut, Overo, Palomino, Perlino, Piebald, Pinto, Rabicano, Red Dun, Red Roan, Roan, Sabino, Seal Bay, Silver Dapple, Skewbald, Smoky Black, Smoky Cream, Snowcap Appaloosa, Sorrel, Splash White, Tobiano, Tovero, Varnish Roan, White