The Andalusian horse breed is the most famous and popular in Spain. In the XVI - XVIII centuries received worldwide recognition. Andalusian horses were in the stables of many European noble nobles and monarchs. Representatives of this breed are rightly considered suitable for military operations and for solemn parades.
Since the beginning of the 19th century, a purebred English horse has been widely recognized. A new era has come: the Andalusian horse (you can see the photo in our article) was no longer in demand, its fame and popularity began to decline. Hippodromes were replaced by arenas; the world-famous Spanish riding school receded into the background. Somehow, good old traditions were only preserved in Saumur and Vienna.
The return of the Andalusians
For many years, the Andalusian horse was forgotten - until the very end of the 20th century. By then, the use of horses in agriculture had given way to spectacular events and sports. The horse breeders became interested in new, as well as preserved, but forgotten breeds. Today they are called “baroque breeds”: Andalusian, Lippitsan, Lusitanian, Frisian, Cladrubian.
In the countries of America and Europe began to organize a society of breeders and lovers of the Andalusian breed. Today, these animals can be found in France, Italy, in the UK. Over 300 magnificent representatives of this ancient breed are registered in Germany.
External data
The Andalusian breed of horses, photos of the best representatives of which are often printed by special editions, has an average height of no more than 1.6 m at the withers. The deep, compact, rounded and wide body somewhat resembles oriental Arabian stallions. The Andalusian horse is more massive compared to current riding horses. A beautiful, high-set long and wide neck with a special characteristic bend and a well-developed crest.
Representatives of the breed have a slightly hunchbacked head not too large, with large almond-shaped eyes. Emphasizes the beauty and sophistication of Andalusians bangs falling on the forehead. The legs of these horses are not very long, bony, light and thin. They end with strong and reliable hooves. Luxurious thick and long mane and tail - an integral decoration of animals and the pride of owners of Andalusian horses.
Everyone who has seen this horse moving will agree - this is a completely unique and, no doubt, vivid sight. Their course is very high by nature - it seems that the Andalusian is dancing. When he moves at a trot, his front legs easily rise to chest level.
The center of gravity of these animals is somewhat shifted to the hind limbs. The front of the body is raised. This makes the mount moveable, its movements acquire a certain pictoriality and grandeur. Such a harmonious combination of fanciful parade and ease of movement are characteristic features of all horses of the Spanish breeds, which are priority in this country.
It is difficult to say that the Andalusians today can seriously compete with the half-blood horses in modern equestrian sports - the high unproductive movements of these handsome men are not suitable for show jumping, eventing and dressage.
Despite this, the number of fans of this ancient breed is not decreasing, but is growing steadily from year to year. And this happens because the Andalusian horse is a living story, the most valuable part of the cultural heritage, which can be compared with a work of art, the greatest creation of mother nature.
Andalusian horse: character
These are obedient, kind and hardworking animals. They are easy and, very importantly, willingly trained and trained. For this reason, Andalusians often become participants in circus performances. These are frisky, smart, majestic horses, which, without a doubt, is their great advantage.
The Andalusian has a proud character, he is sensitive and intelligent, sensitive and responsive, provided that he is respected and taken care of.
Breeding
The main farm for the breeding of this breed is the horse military factory in Andalusia.
Today, many private breeders in Spain breed these animals, but most of the livestock is in Andalusia. The Spaniards are proud of their national breed, they call it “nuestro caballo” - “our horse”. All kinds of competitions, ring broods, horse festivals and exhibition fairs are regularly held in the country.
Andalusian call in at 3-3.5 years. This is a centuries-old tradition of Spanish dressage, which has remained unchanged to this day. The goal of these trainings is to achieve perfect balance and submission of the animal. The horse should become mobile and flexible, unquestioningly carry out the commands of the rider. A perfectly prepared horse can be observed in bullfighting. To save herself from the terrible horns of a distraught bull, she must be exceptionally dexterous, agile, understand the commands of her rider at a glance. Such animals obey the slightest movement of the hull and obey the rider even without reins. Preparation takes an average of 6 years.
It should be noted that the Andalusian horse does not receive a greenhouse education - in Spain’s stud farms, mares are on pastures almost all year round. Often their tails and manes are trimmed so that they do not get confused in the bush.
Using
Currently, the Andalusian horse is demonstrating to the world its extraordinary versatility, carried through the centuries. Such important qualities of the Andalusian breed as athleticism, strength, good temperament and impulsiveness are the main characteristics of these animals.
This majestic horse is an indispensable participant in competitions in show jumping, dressage-driving - (both sports and amateur), trail, western-style and classic-style riding.
It should be noted Andalusian beauty as an incomparable show horse. In Portugal and Spain, the Andalusian shows courage, quick wits and agility in the face of a fierce bull in the arena.
Without a doubt, this is a wonderful family horse. Not every animal can understand and love a person this way. Wherever the Andalusian is, no matter what he does, he shows his proud, independent, and at the same time kind character.
This is a strong, fast and hardy horse whose movements are dynamic, with a relief and picturesque move. The perfect “model” of higher education, always setting the exact pattern of movements for the horse and the necessary fit for the rider.
Andalusian belongs to the loud glory of the founder of many other breeds. In European countries, his blood flows in the veins of species such as Lipizzano, Vernius, Lusitano, Alter Rial, Oldenburg, Hannover, Holstein, Cleveland Bay, Wales Cob, Connemara, Orlov Trotter, Frieze, Old Norman, Hekne. The horse, which Christopher Columbus brought to the New World, had a huge impact on the formation of all American breeds.
Andalusian horse: suits
In the past, horses of this breed were characterized by a variety of colors. Now it is mostly gray or bay. The Andalusian black horse is a rarity today. The most common is gray (80%). Much less common is bay, nightingale, red, isabella and bulan. It is worth recalling that the white color of these horses does not exist, therefore the phrase "gray color" most often means white individuals.
