The Spanish horse breed is a combination of grace, nobility and amazing intelligence. For many centuries, these animals were considered the most sought after throughout Europe. The importance of Spanish horses for horse breeding is difficult to overestimate: they were used in military operations, solemn parades, and now they regularly become participants in exhibitions and riding competitions. Such versatility, combined with an attractive appearance, explains the high cost of horses.
Spanish horse breed
History of origin
Purebred Spanish horses appeared in the XNUMXth century in the region of Andalusia, from which the second name of the animals came – Andalusian. However, the roots of the breed go deep into the past, as evidenced by rock paintings found in southern Spain. It is believed that the horses depicted on the walls of the caves became the ancestors of the Spanish horses.
There are still many theories about the origin of the “Spaniards”, the most common of which is the crossing of Iberian and Arabian horses. The proof of this is the interesting appearance of animals – they harmoniously combine the massiveness of European and the sophistication of oriental horses.
Scientists confirm that the breed was formed gradually, under the influence of other horses brought to the territory of Spain. The inhabitants of Europe almost immediately appreciated the advantages of these animals compared to Arabian horses. Subsequently, the Spanish stallions became much more popular than the “Arabs”. In the XNUMXth-XNUMXth centuries, they were actively used in military campaigns, which is mentioned in world-famous works of art.
Breeders paid close attention to the purity of the breed, thanks to which the “Spaniards” quickly won the status of “elite horses” and were kept in the royal courts of Europe. Simultaneously with the horses, the Spanish riding style came into fashion, which was characterized by close contact between the rider and the animal and increased maneuverability.
The breed standard was introduced only at the beginning of the 1912th century thanks to the efforts of the association of horse breeders in Spain. The official date for the emergence of Spanish horses is XNUMX. From this time on, breeding conditions are strictly regulated, which allows you to keep the purity of the blood.
Breed description
Spanish horses developed in a dry, hot Mediterranean climate, which left an imprint on their appearance and character.
Exterior
The following features are characteristic of animals of this breed:
- Solid, powerful hooves of the correct form.
- Thin mane and tail hairs.
- Compact muzzle with small ears and wide nostrils.
- Solid color – the color of the body varies from dark chocolate to red. Today, among the “Spaniards” the gray suit prevails.
- Short but muscular and powerful limbs.
- Wide, convex chest with a sunken abdomen.
- Extended back.
- Low set, long tail.
- A short neck, which noticeably thickens towards the body.
Spanish horse breed
The black suit is almost never found among Spanish horses. An equally rare occurrence is animals with light spots on the body. Connoisseurs believe that the beauty of animals is revealed especially brightly in sunlight, when the mane shimmers with golden hues.
Character
Spanish horses are valued for their docile, calm nature. They are ideal for riding training. Animals easily learn tricks, do not resist the owner, quickly get used to people. However, beginners are advised to purchase horses that have already been ridden, because, despite the kindness and friendliness, stallions can “show character”.
The Spaniards have excellent physical fitness, which allows them to endure even difficult loads. And high temperament and courage explain the demand for horses in the European army.
Application
Animals have proven themselves in various equestrian disciplines – triathlon, show jumping, dressage. Spanish horses have repeatedly become participants in amateur and professional competitions – the tricks of these horses are a vivid, unforgettable sight. They are no less good in simple horse rides.
Thanks to their elegance and beauty, horses are suitable for solemn parades and exhibitions. And in Spain they are used in military training and traditional local entertainment – bullfighting, to “check the readiness” of the bulls.
Reference. Despite the high performance, animals are not used in agriculture, since not everyone can afford such a horse.
Care instructions
Keeping a Spanish horse is expensive. Representatives of this breed are demanding on nutrition. A good solution would be a combination of natural and specialized feeds. Animals need constant access to clean water, especially in summer, as irregular drinking leads to health problems and negatively affects the appearance of the horse. The general rules of care are standard and practically do not differ from the recommendations for keeping other breeds:
- Compliance with the diet. By learning to eat at the same time, the animal’s body works better.
- Regular physical activity. Without movement, horses quickly gain excess weight, which negatively affects the condition of the joints.
- Keeping clean. Domestic horses need cleaning, washing. Once or twice a year, the animal should be shown to the veterinarian. Timely examination will help to identify and eliminate possible health problems.
Spanish horses require constant communication. The more time the owner spends with the horse, the faster it gets used to, begins to show disposition and trust.
Important! Please note that the “Spaniards” are not suitable for cold climates – therefore the breed is not in demand in Russia.
Hundreds of years have passed since the emergence of Spanish horses, however, given the popularity of equestrian sports, these energetic, graceful and intelligent animals are still in high demand. They are bred in the USA, Latin America and Europe (especially in the “historical homeland”). In addition to participating in shows, exhibitions, competitions, “Spaniards” often appear in feature films.
