The Icelandic horse is a breed of horse
developed in Iceland. Although the
horses are small, at times pony-sized, most registries for the Icelandic
refer to it as a horse. Icelandic horses are long-lived and hardy. In
their native country they have few diseases; Icelandic law prevents
horses from being imported into the country and exported animals are not
allowed to return. In addition to the gaits of walk, trot, and
canter/gallop typical of other horse breeds, many Icelandic horses can
do the tölt and the flying pace .
The only breed of horse in Iceland, they are also popular
internationally, and sizable populations exist in Europe and North
America. The breed is
still used for traditional sheepherding work in its native
country, as well as for leisure, showing, and racing.