The History of the Gypsy Vanner Horse

The Gypsy Vanner horse is bred for strength, beauty and gentleness. It often has a piebald or skewbald coat. The breed is known for its muscular build and long, flowing mane, tail and feathers

  1. History

    • Gypsies, or Romany peoples, have bred Gypsy Vanner horses since around 1959, beginning in Great Britain. Gypsy Vanner horses came to the United States in 1996. As of 2009, there were about 950 in the United States.

    Background

    • The breed descends in part from Gypsy Cobs, used to pull caravans for hundreds of years. Gypsy Cobs are known for their stamina, strength, docility and beauty.

    Breed Registry

    • The Gypsy Vanner Horse Society, which acts as the official breed registry, was founded in 1996. To meet registration requirements, a horse can be the offspring of two registered horses, or it can be evaluated by the committee.

    Uses

    • Gypsy Vanner horses were formerly used for driving. Now they are used for driving, dressage and hunter-jumper events.

    Breeding Programs

    • For hundreds of years, Gypsies kept record of pedigrees only in their minds, but the advent of a breed registry changed that. Breeding evaluation materials may be found at www.gypsyvannerhorsesociety.org. Stud registries are available at www.gypsyvannerhorsesociety.org and www.vannercentral.org.