Falabella (horse)
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The Falabella horse is the smallest breed of horse in the world, reaching around 30 inches in size.[1]. Descended from the Andalusian breed, the Falabella developed in the pampas of Patagonia.
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[edit] History of the Falabella
The Falabella is descended from Andalusian horses brought by early immigrants to the pampas of Patagonia. These original Andalusians were often left to roam free after failed colonization attempts. As a result, they developed characteristics suitable to the landscape and climate, as well as genetic mutations caused by a small gene pool.
To travel long distances and to withstand the strong sun and winds, the Falabella developed great stamina. Genetic changes resulted in the smaller size.
It was not until 1940 that the Falabella breed appeared in earnest, after breeding attempts by the Falabella family, led by Julio C. Falabella, saw the breed reach a standard height of first under 40 and then under 30 inches.[2]
[edit] Breed characteristics
Average breed heights for a fully-grown Falabella today are between 28 and 31 inches. They are similar to throughbreds or arabs in their conformation (almost as a miniture version) with cob like features (sturdier, thicker hair, fetlocks)
[edit] Notes and references
[edit] External links
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