History of the Dole horses:

The Dole Trotter and Dole Gudbrandsdal originated in the Gudbrandsdal Valley of Norway and probably descended from Dutch and Friesland horses, most notably the Friesian. Having some similarities to the British Fell Pony and Dales Pony, people guessed that these 3 breeds originated from the same stock.

There are two types of Dole horse:

- The heavier Dole Gudbrandsdal

- The lighter Dole Trotter.

The Dole Gudbrandsdal was originally used for pack or agricultural work until mechanization was the main source for agriculture, at which time their numbers declined. In 1967, their state association and state-breeding center was established and their numbers began to increase.

Both Dole horses can be shown and graded. The Gudbrandsdal is judged on it pull power and trot while the Trotters are seen on the racetrack but are now rare.

Breed Characteristics:

The Dole Trotter is slightly larger than the Dole Gudbrandsdal and has a more refined head but both breeds are similar. They stand 14.2–15.2 hh and are usually brown, black, or bay. They typically have a crested neck with strong, powerful shoulders and quarters and are usually slightly long-backed. The Dole Gudbrandsdal has short, dense legs with good bone and some feathering. Both types have luxurious manes and tails. The Dole Trotter has less feathering on its legs and is noted for its stamina and endurance. The Dole Trotter looks similar to the British Fell Pony and Dales Pony, while the Dole Gudbrandsdal looks more like a Friesian because of the feathering.