A descendant of the northern European domestic horse, the Finnhorse belongs to the general horse breeds, having both warm blood and heavier draft blood influences. The breed is also called the Finnish Universal because it is said to fulfill all needs for horses in Finland from draft to speedy trotting races to riding.

Having a compliant nature the Finnhorse is easily handled, has considerable speed, liveliness, endurance, and longevity. It is dry and strongly muscled, with hard legs and good hooves. The main color is chestnut, with white markings often found on the face and legs. Other colors are bay, grey, and more rarely brown or black.