How to identify a Lusitanio horse

The Lusitano horse - an ancient, noble and courageous breed. But identifying it can be trickier than you might think. This article will provide tips on how to tell what is a Lusitanio and what is a close cousin - the Andalusian.

Things You'll Need

  • Willingness to ask questions
  • Good eyes
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Instructions

  1. Identifying a Lusitano horse

    • 1

      Being able to tell the difference between a Lusitanio, and his close cousin the Andalusian, is far more difficult that you might think. Both are Iberian horses. But the Lusitanio has subtle differences that make it a different breed. Begin by looking closely at the body.

    • 2

      The body of the Lusitanio is slightly less compact than the Andalusian. Both horses are very powerfully built, stand between 15 and 16 hands, and have exceptional overall carriage and nobility. Lusitanio's have a slightly more sloping croup than the Andalusian, whose croup is very rounded. The Lusitanio is also not quite as low in the cannons - his legs will be longer.

    • 3

      The Lusitanio was bred to fight bulls in the ring, so must make quick movements in small spaces and be absolutely fearless in the face of an angry bull. His movements will be lofty, with great natural flair. Lusitanio's are extremely adept at the high school art of Dressage, and their gaits are comfortable and easy to ride.

    • 4

      Identifying the country of origin is another way to tell if the horse is a Lusitano. The Lusitanio breed hails from Portugal, whereas the Andalusian comes from Spain.

    • 5

      Coloring is another key to identifying the breed. Lusitanios come in a wide variety of solid colors, with the cremellos, palominos, and buckskins being the most sought after.