\n<\/p>\n
Origins<\/h3>\n
Originally brought by explorers from the Iberian peninsula, the animals that landed in the Americas were already tough enough to survive a boat journey across the Atlantic. Over the centuries, they have adapted to a variety of climates and geography and their bloodlines have been curated in many countries. <\/p>\n
These hardy animals have become an important part of tradition and culture in much of Central and South America. In Uruguay they were used to help organize the country, grow food and transport goods or people. While natural selection was the main breeding program for centuries, imported genetics began to make their way into their lineage in the hopes of improving conformation. Unfortunately the trade off was a sacrifice of their inherit robust nature. <\/p>\n
By the early 20th century ranchers attempted to revive the old Criollo type and began selecting pure specimens. In 1916 the government established a studbook and took control of breeding, using highly controlled tactics. At this point standards for this specific strain were created. Raised outside year round to encourage their natural toughness, the strain found in Uruguay is a magnificent example of the breed. <\/p>\n
Features<\/h3>\n
Average height 13.6-14.8 hands<\/p>\n
Physique<\/h3>\n
Head is short with a wide forehead and a straight or convex profile
\nEars are small
\nEyes are expressive
\nNeck is medium and arched
\nHindquarters are muscular
\nBelly is deep and full
\nBack is muscular
\nLegs are strong
\nHooves should be black and dense<\/p>\n
Traditional Colors<\/h3>\n
All colors<\/a><\/p>\n Active and kind Riding *All links open in a new window<\/small>Temperament<\/h3>\n
\nBrave and dependable<\/p>\nUse<\/h3>\n
\nTransportation<\/p>\nHelpful Links<\/h3>\n
\nSociedad de Criadores de Caballos Criollos<\/a><\/p>\nMore Images<\/h3>\n
![\"Criollo](\"\/images\/criollo-uruguayo-horse-2.webp\")
\n<\/div>\n![\"Criollo](\"\/images\/criollo-uruguayo-horse-3.webp\")
\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nVideo<\/h3>\n