About Gypsy Horses

Gypsy horses, which are also known as Gypsy vanners or Gypsy cobs, are small sturdy draft horses that are notable for their long manes and tails and their heavily feathered feet. They are a popular breed for both riding and drafting. They are known for being steady, willing horses.

  1. History

    • According to the Equine Post, the Gypsy horse was originally bred to pull the wagons of the Gypsy caravans. The breed originally came from England, where it was developed from a combination of different horse breeds, including the Freisian, the Clydesdale, the Shire horse and the Dales pony. They were bred for patient temperaments and a strong, muscular build. The Gypsy horse is a relatively new breed in the United States, and the breed's registry was created in 1966.

    Features

    • The Gypsy horse is small and sturdy, with an arched neck that comes up high off the shoulder. The limbs should be well-muscled and straight, but proportional with the horse's body. The Gypsy horse's body is well muscled, with heavy feathering on all of the four legs.

    Color

    • Though the Gypsy horse is not a breed that has color requirements, there are colors that are desirable and which set the Gypsy horse apart from others. Gypsy horses that are black and white with the tobiano pattern, where there are splotches of colors across the neck and chest and flanks, are known as piebald, while hoses with the tobiano pattern in other colors are known as skewbald. Blagdon Gypsy horses are solid with white splashed on their legs and abdomen, while the term odd-colored is used on all other colors.

    Temperament

    • Because of its long history as a draft horse, where steadiness and patience are key virtues, the Gypsy horse is relaxed, respectful of its environment and willing. Stallions are expected to be showy, curious and proud, while mares, which need to raise foals should be sensible, easy-going and quieter.

    Function

    • The Gypsy horse excels at driving, where it is hitched to a carriage or cart, but it is also a capable jumper. It's attitude and beauty also make it a strong candidate for dressage, the art of training a horse's athletic ability and responsiveness to its rider.