Before you buy an Icelandic horse: Read these 7 crucial tips on selection, care, gaits, and reputable sellers. Find out more now!
Buying an Icelandic horse: 7 things you need to know before buying
🐎 Buying an Icelandic horse: 7 things you need to know before buying:
Buying an Icelandic horse is a lifelong dream for many riders. But this special type of horse also brings its own requirements and questions. To avoid any unpleasant surprises, here are 7 things you should know before buying.
1. What distinguishes Icelandic horses?
Icelandic horses are robust, intelligent, and friendly – and they have one special feature: the tölt (and sometimes pace). They are considered sure-footed, good off-road, and ideal for recreational and ambitious competition riders.
2. Four-gaited or five-gaited – which is right for you?
Four-gaited horses have the tölt in addition to walk, trot, and canter – five-gaited horses also have the pace. Riding these gaits requires sensitivity and, if necessary, training. So consider whether you are ambitious athletes or prefer recreational riding.
3. What should you look for when buying an Icelandic horse?
Pay attention to:
- Age & health
- Level of training
- Character
- Origin (Icelandic import or German breeding)
A test ride is mandatory. Don’t be fooled by appearance – the quality of gait and character count!
4. Breeder, private, or dealer – where to buy?
You can recognize trustworthy sellers by the following:
- Horses are presented transparently (video, gaits, pedigree)
- Test rides & consultations are a given
- Health certificates are available
🔗 Tip: On UNDRA.net, you’ll find many horses for sale with videos and information on breeding and origin.
5. Realistically estimate costs & maintenance
An Icelandic horse costs between €8,000 and €25,000 depending on training, age, suitability, and pedigree (there’s no upper limit).
In addition, there are:
- Maintenance (approx. €250–400/month)
- Hoof care (barefoot/shoeing with horseshoes)
- Training, courses, veterinarian
Plan realistically – your horse shouldn’t be an impulse purchase.
6. Contracts and Purchase Process
Insist on a written purchase contract including:
- Purchase price
- Horse’s condition
- Trial period (if possible)
- Disclaimer
Read everything carefully – and ask if anything is unclear.
7. Take your time
You can’t find a good horse “just over the weekend.” Talk to trainers, take trial rides, and record videos. Trust your gut feeling – not just your first impression.
✅ Conclusion
Buying an Icelandic horse means responsibility, but also joy for many years to come. If you do your research and make your decision carefully, you will find a loyal partner for life.
👉 Are you looking for your dream horse?
Browse the current horses for sale on UNDRA now – with videos, origins, and contact information for breeders and riding stables.
A land of fire and ice, with more sheep than inhabitants, characterized by a unique nature! This is just a brief description of such a diverse country. While a volcano may erupt on one side of the country, you can hike a glacier, admire the Northern Lights, or take a bath in a hot spring on the other side of the country - at the same time.
This not only speaks for diversity, but also for spontaneity, which is also reflected in the changeable weather in Iceland. A popular Icelandic saying is "If you do not like the current weather, just wait for five minutes".
In contrast to this inconsistency, one thing is constant and that is the enthusiasm for Icelandic horses! The Vikings brought horses to the island in the 9th century.
To find out more about Iceland, you can find travelogues, reports, or interesting facts here in the UNDRA Journal!