Andalusian Horse

The Andalusian horse has a long and interesting history. The first evidence of horses looking much like the modern Andalusian horses dates back to 18th century B.C. Selective breeding of the Andalusian horse began when the Greek established farms in the territory of modern Spain and Portugal to provide their armies with war horses. The Roman and many other armies took advantage of the Andalusian horse. For many centuries, this breed was selected for agility and intelligence. The name of the breed comes from the province in Spain.

In the Middle Ages, when the armor of warriors became very heavy, light Andalusian horses were replaced by heavy mounts. However, the Andalusian horse returned to its original task in the 15th century when heavy armor was replaced by firearms. No other horse breed could stand the hardships of war, but the Andalusian horse was courageous and determined to participate in fights. Often, the success of the battle depended on the quality and amount of food provided for the horses.

From the middle of the 15th century, Spain was involved in colonization. Invasion of foreign armies destroyed stud farms where Andalusian horses were bred. The majority of the breeding stock was lost. Exportation of the Andalusian horse to other countries has always been restricted and there was not enough breeding stock outside Spain and Portugal. That’s why it took many centuries for the breed to revive.

Today, the breed is preserved by devoted breeders and breed fanciers. The Andalusian horse is often used as a background for other breeds. Many light breeds have Andalusian blood, which is characterized by agility, obedience and elegance. Andalusian horses are used in many sports, like Western and English pleasure, dressage, jumping, and driving. They are also good at farm work and pleasure riding. These steady and loyal horses make good first-time pets for children and novice riders.

Nowadays, there exists a misconception concerning the name of the Andalusian horse. In many countries, these horses are called Iberian horses after the Iberian Peninsula, a place of their origin. In America, the Andalusian horse is often referred to as the Spanish horse.