How Does the Gypsy Horse Get Its Food?

The gypsy horse has strength and is good-natured.

To aid in their nomadic lifestyle, the gypsies of Europe required a strong animal to carry their heavy wagons. As a result, they bred the sturdy, heavy and powerful gypsy horse.

Breeding

The gypsies chose several types of horses for breeding the gypsy horse. The horse developed over hundreds of years by combining such breeds as the Clydesdale, the Shire, the Fells Pony, the Dales Pony and the Friesian.

Traveling Diet

The traveling gypsy horse was a hardworking horse and could survive on little food and water. When traveling with the caravan, the horse fed on grasses at the family's camp or along country roads.

Modern-day Diet

Active gypsy horses can eat alfalfa hay, which is easily digestible and provides energy, protein, vitamins and minerals. Timothy hay is also easily digestible and high in fiber and nutrients. Timothy hay is recommended for aged, lactating and young horses.

References

• The Equinest: Types of Hay
• Gypsy Horse Magazine: Chesnut Gypsy Vanner Horse
• Big Sky Gypsy: Big Sky Gypsy & Drum Horses
• Gypsy Vanner Dreams: Gypsy Vanner History
• Gypsy Cob and Drum Horse Association: Gypsy Cob History