Gypsy Horse Magazine

Gypsy Vanners horses originated in Ireland and England over a century ago. The were selectively breed to create a draft horse that could pull the gypsy caravans.  A calm spirit and a wiling gentle attitude were a must as they were often ridden and driven by young gypsy children They were true work horse, needing little food or water during their work times.

Piebalds were the original color that they breed for. The piebald color is half black and half white They were breed to be magnificent show stoppers.  There is nothing more breath taking than watching a Gypsy Vanner hitched to his wagon trotting down a busy street.  Each family takes such pride in their horses and they often had spirited competitions to see whose stallion reins supreme.

Gypsy Vanner Conformation

The typical Gypsy Vanner stands about 14.3 hands high, and can be most any color now.  They are prized for their arched crown back, smaller ears that curve inward, a round and correct heavy chest, thick boned legs with feathers that start at the knee in the front and the hock in the back that tent-like cover the hooves.

The Vanner    should have a very chiseled and refined head with tapering towards the end of the muzzle, and kind, well set eyes. They should have a  short back and a very well rounded hindquarter, and a crease down the center of the hindquarter that is called “Apple Butt.”  The breed should also have a very wide and thick tail that is not set too high, and it may eventually drag the ground.

Gypsy families were not known for keeping written records due to their transient lifestyle.  Most of the history that we have today is the result of the stories handed down from generation to generation.

In England, it is felt that the Shire, Dales Pony, and the Fells Pony along with the Clydesdale were the major influences. The Fells and Dales are native only to that country and much resemble smaller Friesians with a bit less feathering. In Ireland where more of these horses originated, they used the Shire and the Clydesdale with more influence for refining the horse from the Highland Pony.

Gypsy MVP America’s First Importer of Gypsy Vanners

If you would like to learn more about the Gypsy Vanner please contact Gypsy MVP.  The are one of America’s first Gypsy Vanner breeders.  They maintain a very large stock of these horses on several different ranches in Texas.  They are known for their kind and gentle preservation of this beautiful breed.