Andalusian Horse
The Andalusian horse breed was developed in Spain and is one of the most iconic breeds in the world. The Andalusian horse, known in native Spain as Pura Raza Espanola (PRE) or "Pure Spanish Horse", is a medium-sized, well-built horse designed for riding.
They have large, expressive eyes, long, straight outlines, delicate lips, flared nostrils, and chiseled cheeks.
The body is rounded, with long, sloping shoulders and smoothly curved hips. The spine and neck muscles are well developed. The legs are "bony" and the hooves are neat, round and hard.
Most Andalusian horses are gray. Typically, like their descendants the Lipizzaner, they are born black or dark gray and lighten as they age.
In fact, over 80% of Andalusian horses are silver, grey, black or white, but other colors are also seen. The Andalusian horse is the most common color besides gray, occasionally chestnut individuals can be seen, and even palominos can be seen.
One of the most unique features of the Andalusian horse is its full, flowing mane and tail. The forehead sweeps across the face, and the tail is usually long enough to touch the ground.
Hair can be straight and smooth, but wavy and curly hair are most common. There is little excess hair or "feathering" on the legs, and the coat on the body is short, fine, and has a deep luster.
Another unique feature is the highly flexible joints at the hocks, knees and footlocks. This allows for the execution of complex dressage movements including jumps, kicks and controlled dance-like steps.
The neck is also strong and flexible, creating the signature silhouette of a fully tucked horse with an elegant arch to the head and neck.
The Andalusian horse played an important role in Spanish history , first as a cavalry horse that was brave and agile in battle, and then as a symbol of Spanish sophistication.
These beautiful horses were given as gifts and loved by the elite.
Andalusian horses were not exported from Spain until the 1960s, but they are so popular and highly regarded that they are now popular all over the world, due to their intelligence, calmness, trainability and good looks.
Today, they can not only perform dressage, but also compete in jumping events, cross country events, and even Western competitions.
