Sardinian Anglo-Arab

Originating from Sardinia in Italy, this horse excels as a riding horse, with hardy, swift, qualities, good staying power and is a good jumper with a well-balanced temperament. This Anglo-Arab is divided into three types - small, from 15.1-15.2 hands high; medium, from 15.2-16.1 hands; and large, over 16.1 hands high. He usually has the typical Arabian coat colors, and his head is light and square with a straight profile and small mobile ears, large lively eyes, and flared nostrils. His neck is well set-on, light and he carries it elegantly. His withers are pronounced, and he has a straight or slightly back with short and muscular loins. His croup is nicely sloping and his tail is well set-on with plenty of hair. He has a broad chest and full deep girth with well-arched ribs. His shoulder is long and sloping. He has solid legs with thin but strong cannons, and well-defined tendons. His pasterns are a good length and nicely sloping, and he has a well-proportioned foot.

Arab horses were crossed with native breeds from the time when the Saracens dominated Sardinia. Andalusian stallions were imported in the early 16th century by Ferdinand V (known as "the Catholic") to improve the breed. In the beginning of the 18th century, this breed went into decline but, the input of new Arab blood at the beginning of the 20th century resulted in a revival. More recent crossings have come from English Thoroughbred blood, which has led to the formation of the breed of today, which is very different in size and structure from its forefathers.

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Published April 1997 in NorthWest Breyer Horse Club Newsletter as part of an article on Anglo-Arabians. (em)
© 1997-2019 NW Breyer Horse Club & Refiner of Gold Creations
Equinealities in place since 1997, Section in place 2001, Updated 1/28/2019
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