Information on the Andalusian Breeding Horse

Andalusians have a long and colorful history.

Andalusian horses, with their large, powerful bodies and magnificent coats, are both intelligent and dependable. Popular as both parade and performance horses, Andalusians have come close to extinction in the past and are therefore subject to some strict breeding guidelines.

The Facts--Andalusians

Andalusian horses are a very old breed, with a colorful and important history. These horses are considered to be natural athletes, and are both powerful and highly intelligent. Their intelligence and willingness to please lead to easy training and good companionship. Many people choose to breed Andalusians as performance horses or pets.

History

Andalusians are famous as the warhorses of the Medieval Age. During that time they were used on both war grounds and tournament and jousting fields. Their heavy muscling made them both physically capable of war and intimidating to their enemies, and a string of large, powerful Andalusian war horses was considered to be a status symbol.

Characteristics

Andalusians are large, heavily built animals. They are normally born black, and fade to light gray or white at maturity, though they may remain black or bay. Andalusians are known for their long, flowing forelocks, manes and tails. They do not grow tall, rarely exceeding 17 hands, but are very heavily muscled, with heavy feet and sturdy bones.

Uses

Andalusian horses are now bred for several purposes. These heavy horses are treasured in dressage, where their natural high-stepping "dance" merges well with the requirements of the discipline. Andalusians are also used as parade horses, where they are dressed and ridden as part of costume performances. Because they are so heavy, Andalusians are not bred or used for show jumping.

Breeding

Andalusians are a product of the Iberian Peninsula of Spain, where they have existed for over 2,000 years. During their use as war horses, Andalusians nearly became extinct. In the late 18th century, the Spanish government created a restricted breeding and export program to save the breed. Today, breeding of Andalusians is subject to the International Andalusian and Lusitano Horse Association's approval and blessing, to maintain the integrity of the breed.

References

• International Andalusian and Lusitano Horse Association: Spanish Horses
• Andalusian BC: Canadian Breeders