Andalusian Horse
Intro
The Andalusian is right up there with the Arabian when it comes to purity and length of bloodline. The grandfather of horse breeds, the Andalusian blood influences almost every breed known today.
Origins
The Andalusian horse is known by many different names Iberian Saddle / War horse, Jennet, Lusitano, Alter Real, Carthusian, Spanish Horse, Portuguese, Peninsular & Castilian. They are officially known as the Purebred Spanish Horse and have long been considered to embody perfection when it comes to horseflesh.
Their roots (and convex profile) are likely to have come from Asian blood influence prior to the Muslim invasion of the Iberian peninsula. Some believe that the Barb blood was what created the roman nose of this breed, however Iberian horses displayed their grand profile centuries before the Barb horses came to be.
Pure Spanish blood infuses animals with a graceful and noble presence. When introduced to other breeds, they markedly improve stock and their strong qualities persist throughout generations.
The breeding began and is still taken very seriously in the region of Andalusia, Spain. The purest strains were bred at the Carthusian monestary near the coast of Jarez de la Frontera.
Features
Average height 15.1 - 15.3 hands
Athletic with a strong presence
Elegant springy action
High degree of flexion possible in hind legs
Physique
Large sculpted head with convex profile
Bright eyes & a kind expression
Elegant arched neck
Deep, short-coupled body
Strong round hindquarters
Short cannon bones
Flowing mane and tail
Traditional Colors:
Temperament
Intelligent
Affectionate
Courageous
Spirited
Pros:
Gentle and docile animals.
Cons:
Highly spirited for beginner riders.
Use
General riding
Show horses
Performance animals
Helpful Links
* All links open in a new window
International Andalusian & Lusitano Horse Association
Northwest Andalusian Horse Association
The Andalusian Horse
Where to Buy
The International Andalusian Horse Importers
Equus Ole
Horsefinders.com
Sommer Ranch
Majestic Andalusians DM
Andalusian Studs
Andalusian Horse Association of Australasia
Andalusian-Stallions.com
Horsequest.com
Andalusain Stallion Directory
O Horse
Stallions Directory
Andalusian Horse Art
Andalusian Art Gallery
jeanner on flickr
