The colorful and extraordinary breed of the Gypsy Vanner horse dates back to the eccentric Gypsy travelers in England. These sturdy caravan horses were not only flashy horses but were also part of the art form that the Gypsy travelers displayed. From their stout strong stature, flowing manes and tails to the feathers on their legs, these horses were looked upon as a symbol of power and strength among the Gypsy culture.
Today, they continue to hold awe and wonder amongst breeders and onlookers as a symbol of power and strength. Many of the foundational bloodlines were typically kept secret by family members so there is little knowledge about the true bloodlines of the breed. These characteristics make this equine breed an ideal choice for horse riders and owners of all experience levels.
Even beginners will feel comfortable around this breed, and children will be able to ride Gypsy horses confidently as well. The athletic Gypsy Horse will also learn quickly, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an equine companion that will be easy to work with.
These animals are willing to be trained and are ready to please, as well as highly intelligent, so they are a pleasure to be around. The Gypsy Horse comes in a variety of colors, and some can even have uniquely beautiful blue eyes. The Gypsy Horse has several distinguishing characteristics, including legs that are abundantly feathered and a thick tail and mane.
These horses are small yet strong draft type animals that feature hindquarters that are heavily muscled. This horse was selectively bred for over half a century from a vision to create the perfect horse to pull the Gypsy caravan.
The genetic origins of the breed include the Shire, the Clydesdale, and the native British ponies such as the Dales. The modern Gypsy horse originated in Ireland. Throughout the centuries the Gypsies crossed numerous horse breeds to come up with the perfect horse for their purposes. The Romani people bred only horses best-suited for their needs and soon developed a unique horse. Gypsy Horses have a wide range in their heights. The larger Gypsy horses are used for pulling, and the smaller ones are ridden.
However, they can range from The Gypsy Vanner Horse Society has a breed standard in which it lists the height from Gypsy Vanners commonly weigh between 1, to 1, pounds. In the earlier days, Gypsy horses were taller deriving its height from the influence of both Clydesdales and Shires , two of the taller horse breeds in the world.
However, large-sized horses fell out of favor, and Gypsy began to introduce horses of shorter stature in the bloodline. The Dales pony fit the Gypsys purpose. They are known as strong, hardy ponies with great stamina and courage. They are an intelligent breed with a pleasant disposition. The Dales, allowed the Gypsy to maintain the heavy bone, feathers, and ability to pull big loads derived from the Shire and Clydesdale breeds but in a smaller and more economical package.
The gypsy vanner breed is prone to develop polysaccharide storage myopathy PSSM. PSSM is a particular disease in horses caused by their failure to properly horses metabolize sugar and starch.
Instead of burning glycogen when needed for energy its stored in the horses muscles. Because the glycogen remains in the muscles, it often causes the animal to develop cramps tie-up and muscle tremors, especially after exercise.
The symptoms of PSSM can be controlled with diet and exercise. Horses with PSSM should eat low sugar and low starch diet and get regular exercise.
You can learn more about this disease here: Prevalence of polysaccharide storage myopathy in horses with neuromuscular disorders. Gypsy Vanners were specially trained by the Gypsy to pull their home on wheels, called a vardo. One unique training method taught the horses was never to stop pulling on a hill. The Gypsy horses are used for more than just pulling; they are also used in jumping, dressage, western pleasure, and English eventing as well.
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