- Andalusian -

The Andalusian is well known and one of Spain's most famous horses, and it has a somewhat mysterious past. There are three different explanations as to the origin of the Andalusian Horse, but whichever you choose to believe, there is no denying that the breed is ancient.

Firstly and most likely, it is though that during the Moorish invasions of the eighth century A.D., the Barbs and Arab horses belonging to the Moors crossed with the native Spanish stock to produce the Andalusian horse. There is also the theory that this breed is a descendant of the 2,000 Numidian mares that the Carthaginian general, Hasdrubal, shipped to Spain. Last of all, there is debate over whether or not the Andalusian is descended from Equus Ibericus, which was also influential in the development of the Barb.

No matter which one you choose to take faith in, there is no doubt that the Andalusian has had influence on a tremendous number of breeds. Their influence is seen in the Oldenburg, the Holstein, the Frederiksborg, the Kladruper, the Lipizzaner, the Hackney, the Friesian, the Old Norman Horse, the Orlov, the Quarter Horse and the Criollo.

In appearance the Andalusian has an attractive head with a broad forehead, a straight or convex profile, and kind eyes. Their necks are quite often thick, nicely arched, and set well onto good, sloping shoulders. The chest should be broad and deep, the barrel rounded, the back short and compact and the hindquarters muscular with a thick, low-set tail. They tend to exhibit a tremendous presence and a spectacular action, which includes the gait paso de andatura, a high-stepping movement that was used in parades.

These horses are docile and quiet, but are also energetic and brave, qualities that have led to their frequent use in the bullring. They are predominantly gray, black, bay, chestnut, or roan, and can stand anywhere between 15 and 16 hands high. The name Andalusian means 'the pure Spanish breed'.

Return to Horse Breeds page