You can trace the historical origin of the Dala Horse to the lumberjack's cabins as early as 1624. Often the lumberjacks relaxed by carving figures from odd pieces of wood. The popular choice was a horse. These were taken home to the children where they became treasured toys. These wooden horses came originally from the Mora village of Vattnas , Rise, Bergkalas and Nusnas. Nine people are involved in the making of one horses from the Nusnas factory.

A horse represented a creature of great value, a tower of strength in helping the family. A faithful friend who drew loads in the forest during winter, worked in the fields and meadows in spring and summer and carried equipment up to the delightful summer pastures and adjoining chalets. It also provided transportation between villages and parishes and trips to the mill and to the market. There was so much pleasure with a horse. Children really enjoyed their company. They could ride bareback and many children were able to sit on it's broad strong back at the same time.

During the 19 th century, it became the custom to paint the wooden horses with richly colored flower patterns like the Dala painting that decorated furniture and interior walls. Tinkers traveled about the country to sell products of the cottage industry. Their wares were baskets, grinding stones and wooden casks. Often they took Dala horses to add to their collection of goods. The Dala horses were sometimes used as payment for board and lodging.