SPANISH STUDS

Spanish Horse Breeders

The Three Main Breeding Lines

In Spain, there are three primary breeding lines for Andalusian horses:

Morphological Contest Horses: These horses are bred for their appearance and adherence to breed standards.
Dressage Horses: These are trained and bred specifically for classical dressage.
Diluted Coat Colors: These horses feature unique coat colors like perlino, isabelo, cremello, and palomino.

Although these are the main breeding purposes among andalusian studs, there are also breeders focusing on other disctiplines such as: Working equitation, “Alta Escuela” , Spanish Dressage (“Doma Vaquera”), Jumping, driving, endurance…

Iberian Horse Breeders

DRESSAGE PLUS – VASCO FREIRE

Vasco Freire, owner of the Dressage Plus Stud / couldelaria, famous for breeding Lusitano horses for sports.

Yeguada Arroyomonte

Yeguada Arroyomonte, a Spanish stud farm that breeds Purebred Spanish horses for dressage competitions. The farm has been dedicated to

The Great Debate: Functionality vs. Aesthetics

One of the biggest debates in the world of Spanish horse breeding revolves around the purpose of the Pure Spanish Horse (PRE). Here are the two main sides:

Morphological Contest Horses: Some breeders focus on horses that perform well in morphological contests, emphasizing aesthetics and breed standards.
Functional Dressage Horses: Others prioritize functionality and performance in dressage, sometimes criticizing the morphological focus for neglecting athletic ability.

This debate extends to whether there should be separate breeding lines for different purposes or a unified approach to maintaining the breed’s versatility.

The Controversy of Diluted Coats

The acceptance of diluted coat colors by ANCCE (the organization managing the PRE genealogical book) has sparked another debate. While some breeders see this as an opportunity to diversify and meet market demands, others argue that it prioritizes economic gain over maintaining the quality of the breed. This controversy highlights the ongoing tension between tradition and innovation within the breeding community.

The Importance of Buyer Awareness

For future buyers, understanding the breeding practices and conditions in which a horse is raised is crucial. Whether you’re interested in a morphological contest horse, a dressage athlete, or a horse with a unique coat color, knowing the background and breeding environment can help you make an informed decision.

Breeding Conditions: A Key Factor

The conditions in which these horses are bred and raised play a significant role in their development and future potential. Spanish horse breeders can be categorized based on their breeding practices:

Corral Breeders: These breeders have limited space, resulting in horses being confined to small areas.
Hobbyist Breeders: Individuals with one or two mares who breed horses as a hobby.
Free-Ranging Breeders: Breeders who utilize extensive land to allow horses to grow and roam freely.

The environment in which a horse is raised can significantly impact its physical and mental health, making it an essential consideration for potential buyers.

Genetic Diversity in Spanish Horse Breeding

Despite being a closed genealogical book, the genetic diversity among Spanish horses is notable. According to ANCCE, very few stallions have sired more than 500 offspring, with none exceeding 1,000. With over 13,000 foals registered as Pure Spanish Horses in 2023 alone, this diversity is crucial for avoiding inbreeding and maintaining a healthy population.

The Role of ANCCE

ANCCE plays a crucial role in maintaining breed standards and supporting breeders. Their efforts to manage genetic diversity and adapt to changing market demands are pivotal in shaping the future of Spanish horse breeding.

Other resources to find reputable PRE Breeders: ANCCE and IALHA

The National Purebred Spanish Horse Breeders’ Association (ANCCE): The ANCCE is the official stud book organization for PRE horses in Spain. Their website includes a directory of breeders around the world: https://www.ancce.es/en/
The International Andalusian and Lusitano Horse Association (IALHA): The IALHA is an association dedicated to the promotion of Andalusian and Lusitano horses in North America. They also maintain a directory of breeders: https://ialha.org/
Equine.com: Equine.com is a large online marketplace for horses, including Andalusians. You can search for breeders by location on their website: https://www.equinenow.com/

Here are some additional tips for finding a reputable PRE breeder:

Look for breeders who are members of a recognized association, such as the ANCCE or IALHA.
Ask for references from other breeders or owners of PRE horses.
Visit the breeder’s facility in person if possible. This will allow you to see the horses in person and meet the breeder.
Ask the breeder about their breeding program and their goals for their horses.
Get a written contract from the breeder before you purchase a horse.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of finding a reputable PRE breeder who can provide you with a healthy and well-bred horse.

We have our own breeding program, if you want to find more information, you can check the web: www.lanebulosa.com