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Peruvian Mules |
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Peruvian Mules |
"Horseback riding is a vigorous form of exercise except in Peru, where breeders have managed to triumph over nature. They have created a horse that moves by meands of a very smooth amble. These horses are greatly sought-after, for to ride one is much the same as beeing seated in a chair, the way in which a Peruvian gentleman prefers to make his exercise." -- visitor to Peru, 19th century.
The Peruvian Paso - Among the most beautiful and stylish horses on earth, they still have the smoothest ride. The Peruvian Horse's development has been closely controlled by a small number of hacienda owners for over a hundred years. Any animal with an unsuitable disposition is not used for breeding. These horses display a stylish and spectacular action unlike any other working horse. The Peruvian is willing and tractable, yet carries its head high and takes elongated strides. All characteristics breed true and the gaits are natural. The use of artificial devices is prohibited and horses are required to be shown barefoot by the American Association of Owners and Breeders of Peruvian Paso Horses.
The Peruvian Mule - High-qualities mules have been much sought-after in Peru for centuries, and until recently have been relatively unknown outside of Peru. The large scale agriculture in Peru required horses or mules for the Peruvian farmers to inspect their crops. Mules were highly preferred for this task with their smooth, ground-covering lateral gait and remarkably docile nature.
The National Tournament of Peruvian Paso Horses has offered classes for Peruvian Mules since it began in 1945. Verne Albright became fascinated with the Peruvian Pasos in the 1960s, then came to realize "that the Peruvian mules were special and deserving of respect." While the cost of importation of these unique hybrids was prohibitive, he noted that there seemed to be potential for gaited mules in North America.
Key to the breeding of Peruvian mules were ambling donkeys with an exceptionally high-quality gait. Scarce and expensive, these donkeys were rather small for the use in breeding mules suitable for Americans, who are generally taller than most Peruvians. Gaited mules were later found in North America. While the natural gaits of these mules are not as precise as those of the Peruvian donkeys, a high-quality gait is reliably transmitted to mules produced by crossing to Peruvian horses. North American breeders are now producing and selling Peruvian mules, so be on the look out for these amazing hybrids.
Information for this article was extracted from "Peruvian Mules," Mules & More, February 1999. For further information on Peruvian Mules and Horses, visit these websites:
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© 1997-2007
NW Breyer Horse Club & Refiner of Gold Creations Equinealities in place since 1997, Section in place 2001, Updated 3/13/2007 |
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