How Much Does a Friesian Horse Cost? Price Guide [2026]

The Friesian horse is one of the most striking breeds in the world—all black, with flowing mane and tail, feathered legs, and powerful movement. But that beauty comes at a price. Friesians are among the more expensive horse breeds, and understanding the costs involved helps you make an informed decision.

Quick Answer: Friesian Horse Prices

Why Are Friesians So Expensive?

1. Limited Supply

The Friesian breed nearly went extinct in the early 1900s. Though the population has recovered, Friesians remain relatively rare compared to breeds like Quarter Horses or Thoroughbreds.

2. Strict Breeding Standards

The Friesian Horse Association of North America (FHANA) and the Dutch registry (KFPS) maintain strict standards:

• Stallions must pass rigorous inspections to be approved for breeding
• Only about 1% of colts become approved stallions
• Mares undergo keuring (inspection) for studbook registration

3. Import Costs

Many quality Friesians are imported from the Netherlands, adding:

• Purchase price in Europe
• Quarantine costs
• Shipping (often $5,000-$10,000+)
• Import fees and documentation

4. Specialized Care Needs

Friesians require more maintenance than some breeds:

• Feathered legs need regular cleaning and care
• Long mane and tail require maintenance
• Prone to certain health issues that can affect breeding stock value

Friesian Prices by Purpose

Trail and Pleasure Riding

• Older gelding, sound: $10,000 – $18,000
• Trained gelding, prime age: $18,000 – $30,000
• Well-trained family horse: $25,000 – $40,000

Dressage

Friesians excel in dressage, commanding premium prices:

• Started in dressage: $25,000 – $45,000
• Showing at lower levels: $40,000 – $75,000
• Upper-level competitor: $75,000 – $200,000+

Driving

Traditional Friesian use; stunning in harness:

• Started in driving: $20,000 – $35,000
• Experienced driving horse: $30,000 – $50,000
• Show-quality pair: $60,000 – $150,000+

Breeding

• Star mare (breeding quality): $20,000 – $50,000
• Approved stallion: $50,000 – $200,000+
• Studbook-registered foal: $8,000 – $20,000

Understanding Friesian Registration

Registration significantly affects price:

KFPS/FHANA Registered: Highest prices; horses meet breed standards

Studbook vs. Register:

• Studbook = breeding quality, higher prices
• Register = not recommended for breeding, lower prices

Star Designation: Horses that pass keuring inspection; adds value

Unregistered or Unknown: Much lower prices but no breed verification

Health Considerations

Friesians have some breed-specific health concerns that can affect pricing:

• Aortic rupture: Leading cause of death in the breed
• Dwarfism: Genetic condition breeders test for
• Hydrocephalus: Can affect foals
• Megaesophagus: Digestive condition
• Retention of placenta: In mares

Impact on pricing: Horses from tested, health-conscious breeders cost more but offer peace of mind. Always request health testing documentation.

Ongoing Costs

Friesians cost more to maintain than average horses:

Where to Buy a Friesian

FHANA-Approved Breeders

Pros: Registered horses, health testing, breed expertise
Cons: Higher prices

Import from Netherlands

Pros: Largest selection, direct from source
Cons: Complex logistics, import costs

Private Sales

Pros: Potential value finds
Cons: Verify registration carefully

Red Flags When Buying

• No registration papers or “registration pending”
• Price significantly below market (may indicate health issues)
• Won’t provide health testing documentation
• Seller doesn’t know keuring scores or breeding history
• Cross-bred horses sold as “Friesian” (verify registration)

Friesian Crosses: A More Affordable Option

If purebred Friesian prices are out of reach, crosses offer Friesian characteristics at lower cost:

• Friesian Sport Horse (Friesian x Warmblood): $5,000 – $25,000
• Friesian x Andalusian: $5,000 – $20,000
• Friesian x Morgan: $3,000 – $15,000

These horses won’t have purebred papers but may have the look and movement at a fraction of the cost.

The Bottom Line

Friesians are premium horses with premium prices. Expect to pay $15,000-$30,000 minimum for a registered, rideable Friesian, with show-quality horses ranging much higher. The breed’s beauty, movement, and temperament justify the cost for many owners, but ensure you can afford both the purchase price and ongoing care before committing to this magnificent breed.

Sources: Friesian Horse Association of North America, KFPS Royal Friesian, EQUUS Magazine