Spanish horses - southern, stylish elegance on the march

A warm climate, a high level of hospitality and the traditional flamenco speak for a country that presents itself as warm-hearted as it is passionate. Spain is not only a popular holiday destination, Spanish horse breeds also make our hearts beat faster.


In recent years, a large wave of equine immigration of the noble Andalusian horses has spilled over into our latitudes. With the baroque riding style and the teaching of old riding masters, more and more Spanish horses are finding their way into our home stables. For one thing cannot be denied: These breeds are wealthy dressage horses in a class of their own!

"Andalusian" is only a generic term

Many people speak of the Andalusian. This title is not wrong in principle. However, it must be pointed out that only horses that are recognised by the Spanish breeding association and have papers may belong to the breed "P.R.E". This abbreviation stands for Pura Raza Española (Pure Spanish Breed). Horses of this type are those whose sire and dam are registered in the studbook. This is a closed studbook. Representatives of other breeds, animals of undetermined origin or without a P.R.E. certificate are not included. So: Watch out when buying a horse!

Spanish blood was not only appreciated as a noble riding horse. PRE horses were also involved in the development of some of our warmblood breeds. Lippizaner, Gelderländer, Friesian and heavy cold-blooded breeds (e.g. Boulonnais) even now bear characteristics of their southern ancestors.

Iberian horses themselves are descended from hardy Sorraia wild horses and Berbers from the Islamic region.

Historical development

The history of PRE horses is extremely interesting. Originally, Spanish horses embodied dressage horses of the upper class. In the baroque period, Spanish riding was highly respected in all royal houses. The Iberians represented the sensual pleasures and splendour of this style epoch. Over time, the influence of the English thoroughbred dissipated this interest. At the same time, Baroque riding was again eclipsed due to military "expediency" riding.

Fortunately, baroque horsemanship is now gaining more recognition again. Today, you and your equine friend have the opportunity to be trained by renowned trainers of the academic riding style. And this is where Spanish horses come into play again. The historical reorientation tends again towards Spanish horse breeds.

Baroque horses - an increasing trend

Spanish riding - for the observer the epitome of dressage mastery. Performed by horses that no painter could draw more beautifully. Andalusians in particular are indispensable among baroque horses.

Special features characterise the riding horse qualities of the striking PRE horse. In addition to the compact, square format (1.50 - 1.60 m) and the good muscling, his natural uprightness results in a high readiness for collection. Not to mention their imposing appearance with their flowing coat.

Along with Lusitanos, Kladruders and Friesians, these heavy athletes are capable of fantastic lessons if they are well trained. You surely know canter pirouettes, piaffe, passage and the spectacular levade? This high school (Alta Escuela) as well as the Spanish working riding style (Doma Vaquera) show how incredibly talented Spanish horses are. They also shine in other areas of equestrianism thanks to their ability to learn and perform.

Sensitive training is the be-all and end-all

PRE horses are often described as late developers. This can only be an advantage! Giving the horse time to develop is the top priority of serious, good horse trainers. The "Spanish rider" allows his horse the time it needs. Quality must mature! - A saying that we should always keep in mind ourselves!

If the horse's stage of development allows it, many followers of the Iberian way of riding work with double lunge and long reins. This intensive preparatory work optimally gymnastics the animal, gives it a secure sense of balance and prepares it profitably for the rider's aids from the saddle.

Spanish horses - the conclusion

Beautiful, absolutely ambitious and with a very people-oriented interior, the P.R.E. clearly competes with our warmbloods. However, we should see this in a positive light. We have the opportunity to broaden our horizons, learn new (old!) horsemanship and own the horse of our dreams. Let's be honest: Wouldn't you like to have a fiery Spaniard in your paddock?

Animalons brush recommendation for Spanish horses:

The Care Flex Currycomb ergonomically adapts to the muscular contours of the Spanish horses and removes dust & dirt from the horse's coat.

With the Care Flex gloss brush made of goat hair, you achieve the perfect finish by brushing out the last layer of dust and creating a beautiful shine on the coat.

 

Written by Marie Augustin