The Hispanic Arabian horse is an ancient equine breed native to the Iberian Peninsula, whose breeding has been especially popular in Andalusia. Despite having been very popular in the 19th century and part of the 20th century, it is currently considered "at risk of extinction" due to the radical decline in its population. In this tab of our site, we invite you to get to know this breed that is so emblematic of Spanish cultureHere, we will tell you more about the origins, outstanding characteristics, behavior and he alth of the Hispanic Arabian horse. Do not miss it!
Origin of the Arabian Hispanic horse
The Hispanic-Arab horse is a breed of horse that originated in Spain, more specifically in Andalusia. In its name, this horse carries the two breeds that have participated in its development: the Spanish thoroughbred and the Arabian horse. Its origins date back to the Muslim invasions in the Iberian Peninsula, when the first crosses between native Spanish horses and those brought from the East would have been made.
Its creation was motivated with the aim of generating a horse that would combine the most outstanding characteristics of each of its ancestors. Of the Arabian horse, it was aimed to highlight its physical resistance, its athletic qualities and its balance of character. Already from the Spanish horse, the aim was to rescue its natural versatility, its predisposition to work and its precise movements.
The breed began to be developed and standardized in the mid-19th century, a time when they were widely used in military campaigns. Their breeding was very popular throughout the Iberian Peninsula for more than a century, although the largest concentration of individuals has always been in Andalusian lands. Unfortunately, its population has been radically reduced and, currently, it is considered a native breed in danger of extinction, according to the Official Catalog of Cattle Breeds of Spain.
Physical characteristics of the Hispanic Arabian horse
Hispano-Arabian horses are characterized by the general harmony of their traits, which is combined with remarkable physical resistance and an extraordinary ability to perform agile and precise movements. Despite the corpulent appearance provided by his well-developed muscles, his body is slender, with a tall silhouette, a strong and deep trunk, a broad loin and a slightly curved back.
The head of the Hispano-Arabian horse has a slightly pyramidal shape and is relatively small in relation to the size of its body. Generally their forehead is flattened, although it may be arched in some individuals. His eyes are g large, rounded, dark and very expressive, while his ears are medium-sized, slightly separated from each other and their movements and positions are essential for the language and communication of horses.
His limbs are medium to tall in length and are correctly plumb. The forelegs are characterized by a strong and well-directed arm and forearm, a wide knee and prominent tendons. On the hind legs, you can see well-developed thighs, long buttocks and wide hocks. The hooves will always be proportional to the dimensions of the legs and the horse itself. The coat of the Hispanic Arabian horse shows short, soft and shiny hairs, and can show shades brown, reddish(sorrel) or gray
Arabian Hispanic Horse Character
The Hispanic Arabian horse stands out great versatility and predisposition to training, being able to adapt to the practice of a great variety of sports activities. For many years, they have performed outstandingly in show jumping, dressage and equestrian walking.
Its docile character, balanced and receptive to riding are also great advantages for its training. Like all horses, they show a remarkable intelligence and great sensitivity. When properly stimulated, they tend to easily learn different activities and enjoy a trusting bond with their handlers and riders.
Likewise, Hispanic-Arabian horses have a lot of energy and, to maintain a stable temperament, they need a good exercise routine that is compatible with your age, he alth, and fitness level.
Hispanic Arabian horse care
In addition to having the basic care of horses, the Hispanic Arabian horse will need to receive complete and balanced nutrition that fully supplies the nutritional requirements at each stage of life. Horses are herbivorous animals, so their diet should be based on the consumption of foods of plant origin. The Hispanic Arabian horse will need to consume enough hay, green forage and grass to provide the necessary proteins and fibers to maintain excellent digestion.
It is also advised that you consume he althy vegetables in moderation, such as potatoes, alfalfa and carrots. In addition, the s alt stones will provide calcium and vitamins that will help strengthen the immune system of horses, as long as they are consumed in moderation.
Hispanic-Arabian horses will also need to receive a grooming and hygiene routine to keep them free of dirt, parasites and disease. Ideally, brush them daily and clean their hooves at least once a day, preferably after training is over.
Depending on the weather conditions and the type of training you do with your horse, you will need to bathe him or at least clean his legs and body parts that have become dirty. If you choose to give your horse a bath, do not forget to use suitable products for his hygiene and always dry him completely so that moisture does not accumulate in his skin and hair.
Last but not least, Hispanic-Arabian horses need a balanced routine of physical exercise and mental stimulation to maintain a balanced weight and fully develop their physical and cognitive abilities.
He alth of the Hispanic Arabian horse
Despite its outstanding physical resistance, the Hispanic Arabian horse may be affected by some common diseases in horses, such as colic and equine influenza, or by skin problems, such as ringworm and mange in horses.
To prevent these conditions, your horse will need to receive adequate preventive medicine to strengthen its immune system and preserve optimal he alth. For this reason, remember to make preventive medicine visits to a specialized veterinarian on a regular basis, every 6 or 12 months, as well as keep your deworming and vaccinations up to date. your horses.
