Intro
Not an official breed, the D’Andrade Horse is a strain of Alter Real or the Royal breed of Alter. The branch is named for the man who is responsible for the breed’s survival, Dr. Ruy d’Andrade. They are mainly found in Alto Alentejo, Portugal.
Origins
The Alter Real breed was established in 1748 as riding horses for the Royal Stud Farm of Alter established by King João V and have been bred since. At the start of the 20th century Portugal renounced its monarchy and breeding programs were discontinued. Luckily a few pure animals were kept by Dr. Ruy d’Andrade, who continued their breeding. By 1942 he handed a small herd over to the Ministry of Agriculture for safekeeping where the herd continues to thrive.
Along with others, the d’Andrade strain was bred by three generations of the d’Andrade family at the Stud D’Andrade. Not just known for their work with Alter Real animals, the family has been influential in the Lusitano, Garrano and Sorraia breeds as well.
Features
Average height 15 – 16 hands
Strong and powerfully built
Physique
Head is refined with a straight or convex profile
Short, muscular neck
Broad, muscular back
Hindquarters are rounded
Legs are dry
Long pasterns and strong hocks
Traditional Colors
Most solid colors
Temperament
Intelligent and quick to learn
High energy but attentive
Use
Riding
Dressage
Show horse
Helpful Links
Stud Farm SA
The Alter Stud Farm