If you are a fan of horses, you know that there are quite a few breeds, and it can often be helpful to sort them into different categories to organize them. Sometimes, it’s easier to sort them by height or speed, but this time, we’ll sort them by region. You’re in for a treat if you haven’t looked at South American horses yet. As we discuss each breed, we’ll show you a picture of what they look like so you can determine if one is ideal for your stable.
The 9 South American Horse Breeds
1. Brazilian Sport Horse
The Brazilian Sport Horse is a relatively new breed developed in the 1970s. Despite their youth, they’ve already competed in the Olympic games. They’re high-endurance horses known for their agility and strength. They stand 16 hands tall (one hand = 4 inches), which is taller than many other breeds. About 50 of these horses are exported to the United States each year.
2. Campeiro Horse
Campeiro Horses may be the offspring of Santa Catarina Island’s lost horses and the descendants of Spanish horses they brought during expeditions. They are smaller horses that stand about 14 hands tall and weigh about 950 pounds. The island inhabitants let the horses become feral, and their population grew to large numbers. Today, they are a recognized breed available in gray, chestnut, and bay.
3. Campolina Horse
The Campolina is a riding horse from Brazil developed in the late 1800s and available in several colors. They stand 15 hands high and have a smooth four-beat ambling gait. This gait causes the horse to have a smooth ride without the bouncing you might experience in another breed.
4. Chilean Horse
The Chilean horse is another descendant of the horses brought to America from Spain. It’s the oldest horse in the South American registry, and owners usually use it for ranching, though they also used it as a military horse due to its courage on the battlefield. It’s a hardy horse that is resistant to disease and heals quickly. It stands between 13 and 14 hands tall and is available in several colors.
5. Criollo Horse
The Criollo horse is the native horse of the Pampas, an area near Brazil in South America. It’s popular due to its intelligence and willingness to work hard. It stands between 14 and 15 hands high, and owners frequently comment on its hardiness. It can handle extremely hot and cold temperatures.
6. Falabella Horse
The Falabella is another horse that is a descendant of Spanish horses. It’s small and rarely exceeds 10 hands high, and many refer to it as a pony. It has a long, thick mane and an easy-going temperament that makes it perfect for teaching children to ride. Owners often enter them into exhibitions where they can win awards for the long mane.
7. Mangalarga Marchador Horse
The Mangalarga Marchador is a popular Brazilian riding horse because it has four separate gates: walk, cantor, and two different ambling gates. These gates provide riders with a comfortable and versatile experience. The Mangalarga Marchador is a medium-sized breed that often stands a little more than 14 hands tall. It has a silky coat and a triangular head with a crest on its neck.
8. Northeastern Horse
The Northeastern horse also has other names, including Nordestino. It is similar to the Criollo horse but is from a different region of South America. It is available in bay, gray, and brown colors and stands about 15 hands high. Owners primarily use it for riding, but it can also pull carts or work as a ranch horse.
9. Pampa Horse
The Pampa Horse combines the sturdy bone structure of Brazilian horses with the Pinto horse’s unique color pattern. This horse stands about 15 hands tall, and most owners use it for riding or pulling carts. It can be several colors, but the pinto spotting pattern will always be present.
Summary
Any one of these horses would make a fine addition to your stable, and most of them provide the rider with a smooth ride. If you have a child, the Falabella horse is one of the best breeds to use as a training tool to get your children riding the big horses faster and with less risk of injury.
We hope you have enjoyed reading this list and found a few breeds you have not heard of before. If we have helped you pick your next riding companion, please share these nine South American Horse Breeds on Facebook and Twitter. Still looking? Take a look at the top North American horse breeds.
Looking for more interesting horse breeds? Check these out:
- What Horse Breeds Do Police Use? (with Pictures)
- 8 Greek Horse Breeds (with Pictures)
- 7 Australian Horse Breeds (with Pictures)
- Do Spurs Hurt Horses? Is It Ethical?
Featured Image Credit: Grezova Olga, Shutterstock
