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The Dole Gudbrandsdal or Dole is a heavy-horse type from Norway.
Breed history
The Dole Gudbrandsdal has ancient foundations despite the National Dolehorse Association having been established in 1967. They originated in the Gudbrandsdal Valley of Norway, and probably descended from Dutch and Friesland horses, most notably the Friesian. Having similarities to the British Fell Pony and Dales Pony, it is likely the three breeds originated from the same stock.
There are two types of Dole horse: the heavier Dole Gudbrandsdal and the lighter Dole Trotter. The two breeds are commonly interbred today.
The Dole Gudbrandsdal owes much of it current characteristics to the stallion Brimen. They were originally used for pack or agricultural work until the age of mechanization, at which time numbers declined. In 1967, their state association and state breeding center was established, and their numbers began to increase.
Both the Dole Gudbrandsdal and the Dole Trotter must undergo tests and grading. The draft-type is judged on pulling power and its trot. Its lower legs are x-rayed, and if weaknesses show up the animal may not be used for breeding. The Trotters must have performed well on the racetrack to be approved for breeding.
The Trotting strain developed by experimentation with different crosses. One of the more successful crosses used the stallion Odin, described as both a Norfolk Trotter and a Thoroughbred. Odin's blood produced a lighter horse with a better trot stride, and maintained the power in the hindquarters. The stallion is present in all the pedigrees of modern Doles.
Other stallions that influenced the trotting type were:
- Balder (4): a grandson of Odin
- Mazarin, Toftebrun and Dovre: an Arabian stallion registered as being the foundation sire of the Dole Trotter
Breed characteristics
The Dole Trotter is slightly larger than the Dole Gudbrandsdal and has a more refined head, but both breeds are fairly similar. They stand 14.2–15.2 hh (1.47 to 1.57 m) 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.
"Dole Gudbrandsdal"