This is a group for anyone who owns, or dreams of owning, Gypsy Vanners (or any other Gypsy horse!)- along with other beautiful horses like Clydesdales, Shires, Percherons and Friesians. Get adivice, swap stories, and learn more about these beautiful breeds.

The Gypsy Vanner

Colorful and compact, this breed averages between 14 and 15.2 hands, although individuals do vary at both ends of the size spectrum. Its short neck and back give the animal the power to pull the colorful caravans so loved by the Gypsy society. An abundance of mane, tail and feather give this animal a magical look, true to its heritage. Piebald (black and white) and Skewbald (brown and white) are the most common. However, all colors are prized.
Heavy bone, flat knees and ample hooves give this magnificent animal the foundation to sustain a body that includes a broad chest and heavy hips. The withers are rounded making the horse very suitable for harness and the bareback riding style of the Gypsy children.
The Gypsy Vanner Horse was developed from a combination of the Friesian, Shire, Clydesdale - my favortie breeds! :-) - and Dales pony. All of these breeds have the wonderful personality of a cold blooded horse.
The Gypsy lifestyle cannot tolerate animals that might endanger lives. Any horse displaying ill temper is banished immediately. The result of this culling has led to the Gypsy Vanner Horse being one of the most docile horses in the world. The intelligence and kindness that the Gypsy Vanner Horse exhibits must be experienced to be believed. A sound horse that is easily kept is essential for a lifestyle of travel. The Gypsy Vanner Horse by nature of its evolvement is extremely sound and easy to maintain.

(www.gypsyvannerhorse.org)

Gypsy Vanners have been around for years, and they are finally becoming noticed in America with many Gypsy Vanner pics now in calanders and magazines. The love of this beautiful breed is on the rise!

Feel free to add pics of your own horse(s)! All breeds are welcome and the more pics the better!

:-)