The Asturcón is a rare Spanish breed that is well known for its stamina, gentle temperament, and sure-footedness.
It is a very old breed prized for their smooth gaits and comfortable ride.
Keep reading to learn more about this extraordinary breed.
Asturcón Horse Breed Info
Here are some of the key things you need to know about the Asturcón horse:
| Height (size) | 11.2 – 12.2 hands, while some may extend to 13.0 hands |
| Colors | The only coat color allowed for registration in the stud-book is black, but minimum white markings are allowed, like a small frontal star. There is a rather small number of bay Asturian horses that are of the Celtic type, however these horses are not registered in the Asturcón stud-book. |
| Country of Origin | Spain |
| Common Uses | Driving, general riding, as a pack horse |
Asturcón Horse Facts & Information (Breed Profile)
The Asturcón has been described and recognized since Roman times.
They are considered to be one of the oldest breeds, and it is believed that they originated in the Asturian region of Northern Spain, which is characterized by a climate that is temperate and humid and has a rugged topography.
The Romans utilized them for a variety of tasks and spoke highly of the breed, while Pliny, the Roman philosopher, wrote of the horses’ unique movement.
They were highly appreciated and sought after because of their natural ambling stride.
It is widely believed that the now-extinct Irish Hobby was descended from the Asturcón, and there have been several efforts made to recreate this breed using Asturcón horses.
As of the year 1981, this breed has been listed as an “endangered species”.
Activist groups have taken steps to protect these ponies, and many hundreds are said to roam the mountains of Asturia freely in a semi-wild state.
If you’re interested in learning more about this fascinating breed, keep reading!
Alternative Names
“Asturian pony”
Temperament/Personality
Good-natured, calm, easy going
Physical Characteristics
The head is small but heavy, and the profile is straight.
The neck is thin with a large main and low withers.
The chest is deep with strong legs, straight shoulders, sloping croup and low-set tail.
They are very hardy, and can survive in extremely harsh conditions.
Their movements are free and flowing.
Colors
The only coat color allowed for registration in the stud-book is black, but minimum white markings are allowed, like a small frontal star.
There is a rather small number of bay Asturian horses that are of the Celtic type, however these horses are not registered in the Asturcón stud-book.
Height (size)
11.2 – 12.2 hands, while some may extend to 13.0 hands
Stallions
n/a
Mares
n/a
Weight
550 – 600 lb (250 – 275 kg)
Blood Type
Warm
Common Uses
Driving, general riding, as a pack horse
Health
Generally healthy and very hardy
Popular Traits
Ambling gait
Feeding/Diet
n/a
Country of Origin
Spain
Ancestors
Sorraia, Garrano, Celtic pony