The breed was developed in the province of Friesland in the Nothern Netherland.

It is also said that Romans obtained ancestors of the Friesian horses for riding and also took them to England, where the breed type may have influenced the Shire horse, Clydesdale, Fell pony and Dales pony.

Ancestors of the modern Friesians were used in medieval times to carry knights to battle. In the 12th and 13th centuries, some eastern horses of crusaders were mated with Friesian stock.

The Netherlands during the Eighty Year's War, Andalusian blood was added to lighten the breed in order to lighten its weight and thereby render it more suitable for work as a more urban carriage horse.

Friesians were also used by riding schools in France and Spain for high-school-dressage,and they remain popular today for their gentle temperaments and proud appearance.