The Falabella is arguably the most famous breed of small horse in the world. The size of a large dog, this little horse is as much appreciated for its unusual physique as for its excellent character. Far from being a pet that can live in a house, the Falabella has the same needs as all other horses. Find out more about the characteristics of this incredible animal that is the Falabella.
Breed History
Originally from Argentina, the Falabella is a horse that was created by the Falabella family during the 19th century. It comes from the cross between small Shetland and small models of English Thoroughbreds, the smallest descendants of the breed being then crossed between them.
Very popular with the greatest fortunes, the Falabella has integrated renowned families like the Kennedys who acquired it in 1962.
The breed’s Stud-Book was only registered by Julio Cesar Falabella in 1973, making the Falabella an official breed the same year. Based in Buenos Aires, the Falabella family still owns the largest breeding of the breed in the world today.
Physical peculiarities
Its head: the head of the Falabella must be that of a horse and not that of a Shetland. Fine, the head has a straight to convex profile. The ears are small, the eyes are large and expressive, and the nostrils are wide.
Its neckline: the neckline is long and thin, sometimes a little heavy.
Its body: the Falabella’s body is thin and short. Although small, the Falabella is proportioned similarly to a horse. The shoulder is well formed, the withers are marked and the croup is slightly oblique.
Its members: the members are fine. The pasterns do not show baleen.
Its dress: the dress of the Falabella is silky. All colors are allowed, the most popular being the spotted coat.
His hair: the hair of the mane and tail are provided.
His gaits: the gaits are energetic.
Use
The size of the Falabella makes it unsuitable for riding. It cannot therefore be used either for initiation or for equestrian development. On the other hand, it is particularly suitable for children who can learn socialization and responsibility from it.
Very powerful and enduring, the Falabella is an excellent horse for driving, show, show, long reins and free jumping. It can be used in competition, in particular in adapted coupling.
