Falabella Horse: Facts, Lifespan, Behavior & Care Guide

Falabella horses are miniature horses, not pony-sized. They typically average between 6 and 7 hands in height. The origin of the Falabella horse is not known, but it is believed to have originated in Argentina. The Falabella today is gentle, affectionate, and loyal. You can use it for dressage and riding. It is considered a healthy breed with a life expectancy of up to 45 years.

Here are some quick facts about Falabella Horses

Falabella Horse Overview

A miniature horse breed, the Falabella horse measures 7 hands high. It can reach a maximum of 8 hands. This horse is popular for its versatility and ability to be trained in dressage and riding.

This breed descends from Andalusian and other Iberian breedings that were brought by the Spanish to Argentina in the 19th century. Patrick Newtall, a breeder, began to breed Falabellas using Criollo stock in the late 19th century to create a smaller breed with the same proportions as larger horses, but much smaller. Newtall was able to achieve his goal through a lot of inbreeding. His son-in-law Juan Falabella received the breeding program’s secrets after he died. Newtall introduced new bloodlines including the Shetland Pony and small Thoroughbreds. He was able to reduce the breed’s size while still maintaining the desired physical dimensions.

In the 1940s, a breed registry was established. To be considered Falabella, a horse must measure under 39 inches. However, modern efforts have reduced this requirement to an average of 30 inches.

This breed can be kept as a pet or for display. However, it can be ridden by children of all ages and may be able to pull a small cart. This breed was once endangered, and it is currently “at risk” as of 2020.

What is the Cost of Falabellas?

Falabellas are endangered, making them a rare breed. They are still popular pets and are used in exhibitions and shows. They can fetch a high price with some examples selling for upwards of $1,000, while others may sell for as much as $15,000 for show-standard Falabellas.

It is highly unlikely that you will find one in rescue or shelter because of its rarity and high price. You may only need to pay a few hundred dollars for adoption fees if you do find one.

The Typical Behavior and Temperament

The Falabella is gentle, docile, and can be a loving and loyal pet. This temperament and the small stature of the Falabella make it a favorite breed for children. It is easy to lead and can even be ridden, without getting aggressive or angry.

Appearance and Varieties

The Falabella horse breed is among the smallest in the world. They are strong and muscular, especially for a horse this small. Their proportions are similar to larger horses, but they are half their height. They are a beautiful breed with silky hair, fine skin, and small feet.

This breed is usually found in the solid bay or black colors. They also come in palomino and pinto colors, as well as other spotted patterns. The black and red leopard-spotted Falabellas are rare varieties.

How to Care for Falabellas

The Falabella, like all horses, needs to be exercised, fed, and have access to water. They need space to graze, and they also benefit from human contact. The exact amount of land you offer and the other factors that affect it can vary. However, the following guidelines should be used.

Pasture

The amount of pasture that you provide for your horse will depend on how stable it is at night. You should aim to give your horse approximately one acre. You can reduce the amount of pasture required if it comes in at night.

It does not have to be grassy. It must be regularly plowed or cleared of pooh, and securely fenced. Every pasture must have fresh water available for the Falabella.

Stable

You must provide at least three sides of shelter for your horse, regardless of whether you plan to keep it stable at night or not. It protects your horse from the rain and wind, as well as the sun. A shelter can be as small as a shed. Tents are popular with horse owners because they are easy to transport and easy to set up when the horse gets upset.

Is Falabellas good with other pets?

The Falabella is an intelligent dog breed that can be trained well. The Falabella is friendly and can be kept with other animals. This breed can be kept with larger horses, but it may also be kept with miniatures. It is friendly and will get along well with dogs, cats, and other farm animals.

Although the Falabella can also be kept indoors, it will require extra effort. Also, remember that even though it is miniature, Falabella is still an extremely strong horse.

How to feed your Falabella

The breed is a grazing animal and should have access to natural grasses as well as grains in their pastures. Your horse should have good grass in their pasture. You will need to feed your horse quality hay. This will make up about 80% of their daily diet.

To make up 10% of your Falabella’s diet, you can add grains or a proprietary mix. These can be a great way to provide vitamins and minerals your Falabella doesn’t get. You should provide at least two nets of hay per miniature horse per day. Your miniature horse should always be given fresh, clean water.

Keeping Your Falabella Healthy

Although the Falabella is healthy and strong, it can sometimes be susceptible to colic. Although the Falabella does have a sweet tooth, horses cannot vomit. Colic can be fatal due to the large horse. Colic can be prevented by providing clean water and pasture turnout. Avoid feeding hay to sandy surfaces and only feed grain and pellets when absolutely necessary.

Breeding

A mare will typically become pregnant around three years old, although some mares may take up to a full year. It is time to breed once the mare has reached heat. This usually happens as soon as spring temperatures rise. Although the gestation period lasts around 300 days, you might have to wait up to 380 days.

Are Falabella Horses Suitable For You?

The Falabella is gentle, loving, and loyal. It is also intelligent and can be ridden by small children. This tiny horse breed is considered one of the rarest in the world and can be as expensive as $1,200. Although the Falabella is a small breed, they still require plenty of space to roam, graze and exercise. However, some owners have managed to keep them indoors. Your miniature can live up to 45 years if you provide fresh water and a healthy diet.