Last updated: 2 August 2026

Horse breeds

Finnhorse

The national horse breed of Finland: strong, frugal and versatile.

Origin
Finland
Height
Usually 1.53 to 1.63 m at the withers.
Disciplines
A versatile breed that excels at harness trotting and is also ridden and driven, suited to both sport and light draft work.
Character
versatile and friendly
For beginners
Yes, suitable
Finnhorse

Origin

The Finnhorse originally comes from Finland. The national horse breed of Finland: strong, frugal and versatile. There are lines for riding, trotting, draft work and pony size.

Appearance and character

Front-facing portrait of the Finnhorse, showing the breed's characteristic head and neck.
Finnhorse, front view

Playful breed indicator (from the app)

Dressage
Jumping
Own mind
Sweet
People-oriented

These are playful indicators from the HorseJournal app, not a scientific or official breed standard. They describe general tendencies. Every horse is different.

Good for beginners?

With a gentle, people-oriented character, the Finnhorse is often a suitable choice for beginner riders, always with good guidance.

Did you know?

The Finnhorse is a true all-rounder in the Nordic horse world.

Famous horses and remarkable facts

Famous horseRacing record

Viesker

Viesker was Finland's five-time trotting king, the first Finnhorse under 1:20 and the first to earn more than one million euros; he left more than 1,500 offspring.

Source: Suomen Hippos

Frequently asked questions

How tall does a Finnhorse get?

Usually 1.53 to 1.63 m at the withers.

Which disciplines is the Finnhorse suited for?

A versatile breed that excels at harness trotting and is also ridden and driven, suited to both sport and light draft work.

What health points are linked to the Finnhorse?

A hardy, healthy breed, though responsible breeding and a pre-purchase veterinary exam remain advisable.

How old does a Finnhorse get on average?

About 25 to 30 years.

Can I mix the Finnhorse with another breed?

Yes. In the HorseJournal Breed Mixer you pick the Finnhorse and a second breed, and the app creates your own dream breed with a name, a profile in your own language and an illustration.

Breed Mixer

Mix the Finnhorse with another breed

Pick two real breeds and HorseJournal creates your own dream breed. Below are two examples of a cross with the Finnhorse. In the app you name your dream breed yourself, get the full profile in your own language, save it to your horse and make your own share card.