One of the world's oldest breeds, it has been used for hundreds of years as a farm horse in Norway, and in modern times is popular for its generally good temperament.

Archaeological excavations at Viking burial sites suggest that horses of this type have been selectively bred for at least 2000 years.

The head is medium-sized and well defined with a broad, flat forehead and a straight or slightly dished face, with small ears and large eyes.

[1][5] Dun is a body colour that is a tan, gold or related shade with darker (usually black or dark brown) points and primitive markings.

[6] No equine coat colour genetics studies have been done specifically on the horses; but if they were not homozygous for the dun gene, then a dark-coloured, non-dun individual could occasionally occur.

However, this is very rare or non-existent today; dark cropouts existed in the past, but breed standardisation has favoured duns and the colour is now produced consistently.

[5] The horses are also consistent for having pangare traits: lighter hair on the muzzle, belly, inside of legs, and over the eyes.

This difference appears to be based in part from being derived from Norwegian-language terms, which were set in 1922, and their English translations, which were made official in 1980.

The Fjord is strong enough for heavy work, such as ploughing fields or hauling wood, yet light and agile enough to be a good riding and driving horse.

It is common at Norwegian riding and therapeutic schools, as its generally mild temperament and small size make it suitable for children and disabled individuals.

It was established in 1989 and is owned by the Norwegian Fjord Horse Association, Stad Municipality and the Vestland County authority.