Andalusian (PRE) and Lusitano Horses: The Iberian Breeds

Who an Iberian Horse Suits

Andalusians and Lusitanos suit riders interested in dressage, classical riding and working equitation, and anyone who loves a responsive, people-oriented horse. Many are kind and quick to learn.

Their sensitivity means they do best with tactful riders, and a young or stallion-raised horse may need experienced handling.

Horses of the Iberian Peninsula

Horses have been bred in Spain and Portugal for many centuries, and Iberian horses influenced breeds across Europe and the Americas. The Spanish studbook for the PRE has been managed by ANCCE since 2007; in Portugal, the Lusitano studbook is managed by the APSL.

The two breeds share ancestry, and the Lusitano has been selected particularly for bullfighting and working riding, the PRE for classical riding and show.

Feeding and Grazing

Iberian horses are often good-doers that keep weight easily on forage alone. On rich grass, extra weight raises the risk of laminitis, so ask your vet whether grazing should be limited, especially in spring. Base the diet on weighed hay and sensible grazing, with a balancer or mineral lick for vitamins and minerals.

See feeding horses forage first and body condition scoring.

Hooves, Teeth, Coat and Weather

Pick out feet daily and book the farrier every few weeks, and a dental check at least once a year. See hoof care and the farrier and teeth and dental care.

Grays need extra grooming to stay clean, and long manes and tails stay healthier when detangled gently. Many Iberian horses have fine coats, so shelter and a blanket (rug) may be needed in cold, wet climates.

Company, Space and Handling

Iberian horses need company and daily turnout like any horse. See why horses need company.

Health: Preventive Care

Book a check-up soon after your horse arrives, and ask your vet about vaccinations and a worming plan guided by fecal egg counts. Plan for the farrier every few weeks and a dental check at least once a year. Score body condition every few weeks, by hand: weight creeps on quietly, especially on spring grass.

Worming, vaccinations and any medicines: see your vet or a pet supply store with trained staff. They can tell you what suits your horse and where you live.

Buying, Loaning or Rescuing

Breeders, studbook associations and specialist importers are the usual routes. Have a vet do a pre-purchase examination, check the passport and studbook papers, and if importing, ask your vet and your national authority about the paperwork. See buying a horse.