Due to the popularity of this breed, it was exported in great numbers to many areas of the world. This left low numbers of the breed in its homeland. The breed began to decline, until by 1839 the stud was closed. A small number of pure individuals were maintained over the years by private breeders devoted to the breed.
Efforts were started in 1939 to reestablish the breed using Friesian and Oldenburg blood, and later Thoroughbreds and Arabs were used. Currently numbers are low. Connections between the Frederiksborg of today and the old stock are very slight. Up to 1920, the aim was to produce a light carriage horse that could also be used for farming. Then as motorization developed, the demand changed toward riding horses.
The Frederiksborg is a strong, attractive horse, always chestnut in color. Usually the mane and tail are a lighter, flaxen color. White markings on the face and/or legs are common. The head is well proportioned, with a straight or sometimes convex profile, pointed, mobile ears, and large, expressive eyes; the neck is of medium length, well proportioned and slightly arched and muscular; the withers are pronounced, broad and muscular. The back is short and straight; the croup rounded and broad; the chest high, full and deep; and the shoulder sloping and muscular. The legs are well muscled with strong, broad joints, good bone, and clearly defined tendons. The feet are small and tough.
Population Status: Rare