On 9/14/07, Virginia Tupper <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > From "What Horses Reveal" by Klaus Ferdinand Hempfling: > Page 185 - The Icelandc Horse:
This is very interesting, Virginia. I actually think there is some truth in some of what he says for some Icelandics. Though the Icelandics I have been exposed to are some of the nicest, easiest to work with, calmest, smartest horses I have ever known (and I've known a few), sometimes I look into their eyes and I see depths that go back long, long ago. I can almost see their viking ancestors in their eyes. I have never felt that with another breed - even the Arabians and they have an ancient history. I realize that they are allowing me to think I'm running the show but their knowledge is so much more vast than mine. I know without a doubt if I don't have respect for them and their wisdom that they will make my experience with them much less pleasant. In that way - yes - I believe they are different to train than other horses - they are not dumb followers. If you try to train them like dumb followers you will get the type of Icelandic he speaks of. I have to believe from what he writes that his exposure to Icelandics was in Iceland where he probably only knew the ones that are left in the fields with no contact and then brought in to be trained in Tolt as quickly as possible. It is understandable under those circumstances that he would have that perspective. His experience and mine in regards to Icelandics have been totally different because I don't train for tolt - just a nicely comfortable, relaxed horse - whatever gait. -- Laree
