Intro
Named for the family that developed the breed mid-19th century, the Falabella is a rather unique little animal. It is not a natural breed, but rather comes solely from selective breeding.
Origins
Around 1835 in the Argentine meadow lands, Pampas tribes found some unusually small animals among their horses. This attracted the attention of an Irishman who got his hands on some and began an experimental selective breeding program. Around 20 years later he achieved success and had a heard of tiny, perfectly built horses.
This legacy was passed on to the Irishman’s nephew Juan Falabella, who utilized animals from English Thoroughbred, Shetland and Criollo breeds. Through rigorously strict breeding methods Juan was able to further his uncle’s work and produce animals with perfect conformation under 33 inches.
In 1905 the herd changed hands again to Juan’s son who furthered selective breeding and established the breed standard we go by today. These small horses retain some of the qualities found in the breeds that make up their genetics. The original tiny tribal horses that sparked the interest were Criollos who had adapted to a harsh environment by reducing body mass over generations.
Features
Average height 6.1 – 7 hands
Disproportionately strong for their size
Physique
Don’t have a set type, they are bred for quality of overall conformation.
Traditional Colors
All colors
Temperament
Gentle and docile
Use
Showing
Driving
Pets
Helpful Links
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Falabella Miniature Horse Association
Where to Buy
Falabella Studs
Falabella Studbook
The Equueleus Falabella
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