Equistride International Dressage

Andalusian is one of the oldest breeds in recorded history, dating back to ancient times. The name Andalusian refers to the southern area of Spain where the breed, as it is known today, first developed. Under this name fall many off-shoots bred in Spain and Portugal - Spanish horse, Portuguese horse, Iberian War horse, Lusitano - all of whom trace their roots back to the Andalusian.

The original native Iberian horse was characterized by strong, powerful hindquarters, a fast and sure-footed gait and a willing disposition. These traits made him a prized war horse. Over the next few hundreds centuries, Oriental and Northern European blood were mixed with the early Spanish horse by the a succession of invasions by the Arabians, Romans, Moors, and Visigoths.

The most significant addition to this melting pot came in 710 AD when the Berbers came across the Straits of Gibraltar and incorporated the southern half of Spain under their control. The Muslims called this territory Al-Andalusian. This civilization brought a more refined and lighter horse to the existing native breed and this Spanish horse became the most sought after war horse in all the world.

His strength and power were combined with lightness and agility. His elegance, majestic grace and high animation made him equally as popular at the Royal Courts of kings and queens. At this time, we see the characteristics that have remained the hallmark of the Andalusian breed. In later years, with the advent of bullfighting, this horse was further revered for his courage and self-possession in the face of danger.

In the late 1800s, the purity of the classic Andalusian bloodlines was threatened by governmental intervention and cross-breeding. A few breeders, one of the most important being the Carthusian monks of Jerez de la Frontera, managed to preserve the bloodlines and protect the qualities of the classic Andalusian. A strong back, well-developed chest and powerful hindquarters give the horse his high action and sensational expression.

With an elegantly arched neck, intelligent and kind eye, topped off with a long flowing mane and wavy tail, the Andalusian embodies beauty and grace. In addition to these natural qualities, his willing and sweet disposition make the Andalusian a true pleasure to ride.