Average Height
The average height of a Gypsy Vanner horse is between 14 – 15.2 hands.
Colors
Piebald (black and white) and skewbald (brown and white) pinto colors are the most common.
Conformation
The Gypsy Vanner has a powerful, compact body, with a short neck and back. The chest is broad, the hips are heavy, and the withers are round.
Temperament
Gypsy Vanners are prized for their gentle dispositions.
Members of this breed often excel in the following disciplines:
- Driving
- Jumping
- Dressage
Breed History
The Gypsy Vanner Horse was bred to pull the colorful gypsy caravans of England. The breed is half a century old, and was developed from a combination of Freisian, Clydesdale, Shire, and Dales pony blood. Its docile nature is a result of necessity; gypsy horses have to be patient, gentle, and quiet in order to be safe for pulling caravans and carrying gypsy children, who often ride bareback.