The Gypsy Vanner also called the Gypsy Cob or Irish Cob is a domestic horse breed that originated in Ireland. The Gypsy Vanner has been used to pull Gypsy caravans for over a century and was exported to the USA in 1996. The horse is strong and has plenty of stamina. Smaller horses are also more beloved because they require less food and thus cost less to maintain than larger horses. Horses are well known for their athleticism, but they also have a calm and friendly nature.
Here are some quick facts about Gypsy Vanner Horses
| Species Name: | Gypsy Vanner |
| Family: | Cob Horse |
| Care Level | Moderate to high |
| Climate: | Mild and wet |
| Temperament: | Calm and friendly |
| Color Form: | Particularly Piebald and Skewbald |
| Lifespan: | 20-25 years |
| Size: | 13-16 hands |
| Diet: | Hay and Balancer |
| Compatibility: | Calming with Animals, Great for Kids |
Overview of Gypsy Vanner
The UK and Ireland are the origins of the Gypsy Vanner. It was bred specifically to pull Gypsy caravans in Ireland. In the middle of the 19th century, British Isles travel gypsies began using horses to pull their caravans. The breed was further developed and optimized in World War II. The first export of this breed to the USA was made in 1996. It has enjoyed continued popularity due to its good looks, strength, and manageable size, as well as its incredible pulling ability.
The horse was essential to the family’s survival. It was used to transport the family’s caravan from one place to the next. He was also treated like a member of the family. Thanks to its extensive exercise and the many greens it received from eating shrubbery and hedgerows, the horse was well cared for.
Horses had to be kept close to their family, including children. The breed had to be calm and reliable so as not to injure or scare children.
The Gypsy Cob was a type of horse and not a breed. However, breed associations were formed in North America, Europe, and Australia in 1996. The standard for the horse should be between 13-16 hands high. It should also have a straight facial profile and a muscular neck, chest, and withers. Although common features, such as the piebald coloring and feathered heels are preferred and accepted by many breeders, they are not required.
What is the Average Cost of Gypsy Vanners?
Gypsy Vanners are expensive horses, both to own and to take care of. The average cost is around $12,000. You can find a Gypsy Vanner for less if you shop around and are willing to compromise on its standards. However, prize horses with strong lineage might cost more. It is unlikely you will find one in rescues due to the breed’s high quality and cost. However, it is possible. Adopting is cheaper than buying, but the shelter you choose will affect how much it costs.
The Typical Behavior and Temperament
The Gypsy Vanner is well-known for its sweet and calm nature and makes a great choice for first-time and novice riders. The horse was bred to be close to its family, including young children. Dogs and other animals would not have been allowed to surround it. While there are no guarantees, a Gypsy Vanner breed increases the chances of getting a loving and sweet horse.
Appearance and Varieties
While standards may vary from one country to another and between breed associations, some standards are consistent.
Size
This breed is usually between 13-16 inches high (hh). Shorter horses are more desirable. Although they are just as strong and stocky as larger horses, they require less food to sustain their strength. They are therefore considered more economically viable. The Vanner has complex dietary needs that go beyond what is expected for horses and will therefore cost more.
Color
The Gypsy Vanner breed is available in a variety of colors and patterns. They can have solid or patterned coats. This breed is known for its piebald and skewbald markings. You will notice:
- Tobiano is a dark-colored horse with white spots.
- Skewbald refers to white patches on a coat of any color other than black.
- Blagdon is a term for dark horses with white bellies.
Although the breed is not considered to be a color breed, breed registries will allow them to be registered with any color or marking.
Features
There are very few physical characteristics or features that are essential for the breed. It is not uncommon to see feathering along the lower legs. This Vanner is known for having a lot of hair around the tail and mane, which requires extra care.
How to Care for Gypsy Vanners
The Gypsy Vanner can be a tough animal, and you should take care of it. The Gypsy Vanner is tough, strong, and resilient and can withstand cold and wet conditions. Owning this breed comes with its own challenges. It has long hair and can become prone to certain illnesses.
Climate and Conditions
The Gypsy Vanner is a native of Ireland. This area is notorious for being inclement and wet. It can get below freezing and the breed can live outdoors. However, it will need shelter from the cold and wet winter.
It is not uncommon for the Vanner to struggle in hot climates. Ireland has a 50degF average annual temperature and a 62degF average July temperature. Ireland receives 254 cm of rain per year in some mountainous areas near Dublin. You will need to ensure that your Vanner is protected from the heat by providing shade.
Grooming
To keep the Vanner happy and healthy, it needs to be groomed regularly. It has a long tail and a mane that requires extra care. This is particularly true if you live near a muddy area. The mud can build up and cause hair problems.
To reduce the impact of mud on the tail and prevent knotting, braid the mane. Regular brushing and detangling of the feathers at the base of the Vanner’s tail is necessary. This will help you identify any cuts and scratches.
Are Gypsy Vanners able to get along with other pets?
The peaceful and calm nature of the Gypsy Vanner is one of the main reasons why it is becoming more popular. The horse was bred to be calm and friendly with children. Gypsies also kept pets like dogs and cats. The Vanner can be kept with other horses and will get along well with other pets. He is a stable, pleasant addition to any family.
What to feed your Gypsy Vanner
The Gypsy Vanner eats a unique diet. It has a slower metabolism than other horses of similar size. The breed can quickly gain weight so it is best to eat a high-fat and low-sugar diet.
Good quality hay should be fed to your Vanner. A ration balancer, not a feed concentrate, is recommended. To prevent your Vanners from eating too much grass, make sure you have a grazing muzzle.
How to Keep Your Gypsy Vanner Healthy
A healthy diet and regular grooming will ensure this breed is in top condition. However, there are some conditions you should pay particular attention to.
- You should look out for lameness and inflamed lower legs.
- Chronic Progressive Lymphedema (hypertension of the lower legs) could cause excessive swelling. There is no cure for this condition and it will only get worse over time.
- Excessive keratin production can cause crusty growths around your legs. These can lead to fungal and bacterial infections.
Are Gypsy Vanners Right for You?
The Gypsy Vanner horse breed is well-known for being friendly and balanced. It is great for beginners and first-time riders. However, it is most commonly used to pull caravans and carts. The Gypsy Vanner is a short, stocky horse that can be kept close to children and other animals.
Although the breed is well-respected, it can be expensive to purchase, requires specific dietary needs, and requires a lot more grooming to keep it healthy. If you have the time and money to purchase one and want a horse that is dependable and will work well with your family, then this breed might be for you.
Are Gypsy vanners safe to ride?
Because of its easygoing demeanor, the Gypsy Vanner makes an excellent riding horse. Gypsies are ridden in both English and Western styles, and they are appropriate for a wide range of disciplines, from dressage to trail riding and more.
Why do Gypsy Vanners wear mustaches?
Because of their genetic make-up, Gypsy Vanners grow mustaches. They are descended from Clydesdale, Shire, and local British Ponies. These breeds, particularly the Clydesdale and Shire, are recognized for having thick body hair.
What breeds produce a Gypsy Vanner?
The Shire, Clydesdale, Dales Pony, and, through genetic connection, the Friesian are the key breeds that contributed to the creation of the Gypsy Vanner Horse (the Friesian was involved in the development of the other three).
What are Gypsy horses called?
The Gypsy Cob, also known as the Traditional Gypsy Cob, Irish Cob, Gypsy Horse, Gypsy Vanner, or Tinker Horse, is a kind or breed of domestic horse from the British and Irish islands.
Are Gypsy Vanners simple to keep?
The Gypsy Vanner Horse Society describes Gypsy horses as “simple keepers.
Are Gypsy Vanners Warmbloods?
The Gypsies Vanner Horse has some hot blood impact through Dales Pony influence but is largely cold blood due to the emphasis on the feather, hefty bone, and a draft type physique, which also resulted in the Golden Retriever with hooves, cold-blooded, easy-going demeanor.
What is the largest horse breed?
The Shire. The Shire is the world’s biggest horse breed, and it’s recognized for its tall, muscular body and feathery legs. It’s also one of the horses with a laid-back personality. This breed is often bay, grey, black, brown, or chestnut in color.
Why do Gypsies own horses?
Horses are a significant element of Travellers’ lives, with horse ownership regarded as one of the final ties to their nomadic way of life. Travelers own, breed, and sell horses. Trotting and sulky racing are popular recreational sports.
What is the typical price of a Gypsy Vanner horse?
Gypsy Vanner horse breed worth The purebred adult animal will cost you $5,000 to $15,000, depending on age, pedigree, subtype, and training. The top-grade animals might cost up to $40,000 in certain situations.