Falabella
Origin
Argentina
History
The Falabella is a spezial and unique breed. After many generations of selection from a breeding policy perfected by the Falabella family at their Recreo de Roca Ranch, outside Buenos Aires, it has acquired stable characteristics of build and height.
In 1845, south of Buenos Aires, tribes of Pampas Indians had some unusually small individuals among their horses. These attracted the attention of an Irishman named Patrick Newtal, who managed to obtain some. After many years of experimenting and selective breeding, in 1853 he was successful in creating a herd of perfectly built, tiny horses lower than one meter. In 1879 he transferred all his findings and knowledge to his son-in-law, Juan Falabella.
Juan Falabella added some specimens from other breeds to the developing “minihorse”, including small English Thoroughbred, Shetland, and Criollo. In 1905 the herd was turned over to Juan´son, Emillio who managed to fix the established conformation through strict selection.
In 1927 Julio César Falabella inherited the establishment . He kept careful genealogical records and began to spread the breed internationally. In 1937 the stallion Napoleon 1 was born and became one of the best foundation sires of the breed. Another important sire was Jauncito 168 Falabella, foaled in 1968.
With international interest surging, the Falabella attracted study from Europe, the United States and the Far East.
The first established stud for Falabella horses in Europe was the Kilverstone Miniature Horse Stud in England.
Descrption
- Head:
heavy and large compared with the body - Conformation:
the aim of breeder is to produce a near-perfect equine specimen in miniature, but the practice of inbreeding to reduce size often results in a lack of conformational vigor. The best Falabella and miniature horse stock often retain the better points of the Shetland. The Falabella has fine, silky hair and skin that is thin and supple. The hooves are narrow with an oval shape. - Average height:
6.1 to 7 h.h. - Colours:
coat patterns vary but attractively spotted animals are not unusual - Temperament:
good-tempered, friendly, gentle and docile - Today:
Falabella's can only be ridden by the smallest of children. With such amenable and affectionate natures, Falabella's are easily trained, enjoying the attention afforded by regular handling. Due to increasing interest in the delightful breed, showing is becoming more commonplace, with specially allocated classes.Carting remains a favourite past-time for Falabella owners. With good turn of pace, and keen intelligence, the Falabella affords all the enjoyment of a larger horse, without the associated costs, transporting and land requirements. Consequently, horse lovers without the necessary acres of pasture, can still enjoy the pleasure of owning a horse.
