Gypsy Vanner Horse - Characteristics

Characteristics

There is no set color standard for Gypsy Cobs, although the breed often is piebald in colouring. In the United Kingdom, patterns consisting of patches of black and white are traditionally called piebald, and patches of any other colour with white are called skewbald. Some individuals are of a solid color with mane, tail, and feathers of another. The Gypsy Vanner typically has an abundant mane and tail as well as "feather" or "feathering" on the legs, long hair starting at the cannon bone and flowing down over the hooves.

The build is powerful and compact, with a short neck and back. The Gypsy cob is heavy boned, the typical horse measuring between 14 and 16 hands (56 and 64 inches, 142 and 163 cm), but there is no height limit in the registry. The cannon circumference can range from 8" to 12". The chest is broad with well sprung ribs, the hips are heavy. They have short backs, strong shoulders, and the withers are rounded. The hair should be straight and silky, kinky hair is a fault. Their legs should have heavy bone set on large hooves, their hind legs should not be too straight. Gypsy Vanners must also have excellent endurance and be able to go long distances without tiring.

Up until the late twentieth century, the Gypsy Cob was not a recognized breed. Not much is known about the bloodlines of Gypsy Cobs because pedigrees usually were kept secret and only family members knew the details, however, as the interest in the breed grew, several breed registries developed.

The first registered horses were imported to North America in November 1996. There are three different registry classifications for the breed in the U.S., based on height. If the horse is under 14 hands (56 inches, 142 cm), it is considered to be a "mini Gypsy". If the horse is 14-15.2 hands high, it is known as a "classic Gypsy", and if the breed is 15.2 or taller, it is known as a "grand Gypsy".

In 2004, the breed became recognized by the United States Dressage Federation All Breeds Program, and can win breed-specific awards whenever it wins a dressage event or any event sponsored by the USDF.