A List of Haflinger Horses for Sale.

The Haflinger, also known as the Avelignese, is a breed of horse developed in Austria and northern Italy during the late 1800s. There are several theories as to this breed's origin, but its current conformation and appearance are the result of infusions of Arabian and various European breeds' blood into the original native Tyrolean ponies. Haflinger horses are relatively small, are always chestnut in color, and have distinctive gaits described as energetic but smooth. The breed is well-muscled, but with an elegant appearance. Haflingers have many uses, including light draft and harness work as well as various under-saddle disciplines such as endurance riding, dressage, equestrian vaulting and therapeutic riding programs. The World Haflinger Federation (WHF) is the international governing body that controls breed standards for the Haflinger. The WHF is made up of a confederation of 22 national registries, and helps to set breeding objectives, guidelines and rules for its member organizations. Breed characteristics Haflingers are always chestnut in color, and come in shades ranging from a light gold to a rich golden chestnut or liver hue. The mane and tail are white or flaxen. The height of the breed has increased since the end of World War II, when they stood an average of 13.3 hands (55 inches (140 cm)). The desired height today is between 13.2 to 15 hands high (54 to 60 inches (140 to 150 cm)). Breeders are discouraged from breeding horses under the minimum size, but taller individuals may pass inspection if they otherwise meet the requirements of the breed registry. The breed has a refined head and light poll. The neck is of medium length, the withers are pronounced, the shoulders sloping, and the chest deep. The back is medium long and muscular, the croup is long, slightly sloping and well-muscled. The legs are clean, with broad, flat knees and powerful hocks, with clear definition of tendons and ligaments. The Haflinger has rhythmic gaits that cover large amounts of ground. The walk is relaxed but energetic. The trot and canter are elastic, energetic, and athletic with a natural tendency to be off the forehand and balanced. There is some knee action, and the canter has a very distinct motion forwards and upwards. Haflingers from Austria and Italy are branded with a firebrand in the shape of an eidelweiss. Horses from Austria have the letter "H" in the center of the brand, while horses from Italy have the letters "HI". The name "Haflinger" comes from the village of Hafling, which today is in northern Italy. The breed is also called the Avelignese, from the Italian word for Hafling, which is Aveligna or Avelengo. Uses The Haflinger was originally developed to work in the mountainous regions of its native land, where it was used as a mountain pack horse and for forestry and agricultural work. Today the breed is used in many activities that include draft and pack work, light harness and combined driving, and many under-saddle events, including western-style horse show classes, trail and endurance riding, dressage, show jumping, vaulting, and therapeutic riding programs. They are used extensively as dressage horses for children, but are also tall and sturdy enough to be suitable as riding horses for adults. There are several national shows for Haflingers worldwide, including those in Germany, Great Britain and the United States.