Gypsy Horses – Both Beautiful and Versatile
Gypsy Horses, also known as Gypsy Vanners, Gypsy Cobs, and several other names, are a stocky breed which is bred for its temperament, hair & feather, and immense versatility.
Originally bred by Romany Gypsy families in England and Ireland, the breed was created to pull their wagons, or vardos. They needed to be strong enough to pull the carts, and have enough endurance to do this all day long. These horses also had to be of mild temperament, as the whole family was involved in their handling. For this reason, temperament has been a cornerstone of the breed’s creation, and years of selective breeding by the gypsies have left us with a breed which is well-known and loved for its easy-going temperament. Aside from these important traits, the Romany Gypsies also liked the feather and hair of the working breeds, and included these in their lines.
Today, a gypsy cob is a thick boned and well feathered cob, often ranging in size from 14hh-15hh. Temperament is an extremely important part of the breed, and they are adored for their kind and sensible nature. They are very versatile and make great riding, driving, and family horses.
