Garrano Pony

Intro

Also called Minho, Garrano do Minho, Trás os Montes, the Garrano is a prehistoric Portuguese pony which has adapted to the climate and geography in the northern mountain regions of the Iberian Peninsula. Cave paintings from the Paleolithic era describe a pony that is the ancestor of today’s breed.

Origins

It has been theorized that Celtic animals of similar size and stature may have contributed their genetics to the Garrano, but not proven. One of the breeds unique characteristics is a concave profile and although they have had some Arabian influence, cave paintings indicate that their profile is not an Arabian trait.

Garrano blood is thought to run through the veins of Asturian and Galacian horses of northern Spain, as well as the mighty Andalusian which occasionally displays a concave profile as proof.

Features

Average height 10 – 14 hands

Physique

Head is small but can be heavy with a straight or slightly concave profile
Eyes are large and lively
Neck is long and muscular
Back is short and straight
Mane and tail are abundant
Chest is deep and wide
Legs are long and solid with broad joints
Feet are shapely and tough

Traditional Colors

Generally bay or brown

Temperament

Well mannered and intelligent
Easy going and willing to learn

Use

Pack animals
Transportation
Military use
Racing
Riding

Helpful Links

Associação de Criadores de Equinos da Raça Garrana, ACERG

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