The Garrano horse is a unique breed that is specific to the Iberian Peninsula.
They are considered a rare and primitive breed, and are known for their sure-footedness and hardiness.
Keep reading to learn more about the Garrano horse!
Garrano Horse Breed Info
Here are some of the key things you need to know about the Garrano:
| Height (size) | Up to 13.1 hands high |
| Colors | Bay, brown and dark chestnut are most common, with minimal white markings |
| Country of Origin | Portugal |
| Common Uses | Mostly for equestrian tourism in the north of Portugal |
Garrano Facts & Information (Breed Profile)
This breed is so ancient that Iberian Paleolithic cave drawings portray horses that resemble the Garrano horse.
During the most recent Ice Age, which ended around 10,000 years ago, many different animal species that lived in northern Europe moved southward, where the environment was warmer and more favorable for their survival.
There was a group of horses who arrived in the Iberian Peninsula, and these horses are said to be the ancestors of the Garrano.
People living in the Minho region in northern Portugal have deep ties to the Garrano horse, which has been an integral part of their way of life, history, and customs for centuries.
The Garrano horse traveled across the Atlantic Ocean with Portuguese explorers and had an important role in the development of both the Criollo horse of Brazil and the Galiceno horse of Mexico.
Today, several mountainous regions of northern Portugal are home to wild and semi-wild herds of Garrano horses.
Due to concerns for the breed’s survival, the Garrano has been legally protected since the 1970s.
If you’re interested in learning more about this fascinating breed, keep reading!
Alternative Names
n/a
Temperament/Personality
Relaxed, friendly, learns quickly
Physical Characteristics
The head is small, featuring a straight or somewhat concave profile, and big eyes.
The neck is muscular and short, and the chest are broad and deep.
Their legs are strong with hard hooves, and the joints are wide.
These horses are very tough, strong and possess great endurance.
Garranos are also incredibly agile, having spent thousands of years negotiating rough mountain terrain.
Colors
Bay, brown and dark chestnut are most common, with minimal white markings
Height (size)
Up to 13.1 hands high
Stallions
n/a
Mares
n/a
Weight
Average 640 lbs (290 kg)
Blood Type
n/a
Common Uses
Mostly for equestrian tourism in the north of Portugal
Health
Healthy and hardy
Popular Traits
n/a
Feeding/Diet
n/a
Country of Origin
Portugal
Ancestors
Unknown