Gypsy Vanner
About the Breed
The Gypsy Vanner- also known as Irish Tinker, Gypsy Cob, Irish Cob, Romani Cob, Gypsy Horse, and Galineers Cob- is a striking and gentle horse breed originally developed by the Romani people of the British Isles to pull their colorful wagons. Known for their flowing feathered legs, thick manes, and sturdy yet compact builds, these horses combine beauty with strength. They are admired for their calm, affectionate temperaments, making them well-suited for families, therapy work, and riders of all experience levels. Despite their draft heritage, Gypsy Vanners are versatile, excelling in driving, riding, and showing. Their unique appearance and kind nature have made them one of the most recognizable and beloved modern horse breeds. Gypsy Vanners are renowned for their remarkable variety of coat colors and markings. They can appear in nearly every shade found in horses, from solid blacks, bays, and chestnuts to lighter tones like palomino, buckskin, cremello, and perlino. Their most iconic looks are piebald (black and white) and skewbald (brown and white), often expressed in tobiano, sabino, or overo patterns that create bold patches of color. Some Vanners also carry genes for roan, grey, or silver, giving them unique shading effects in their coats, while flaxen chestnuts, silver bays, and other dilute variations add even more range. This diversity ensures no two Gypsy Vanners are ever exactly alike, and their heavy feathering, thick manes, and tails emphasize their dramatic coloration. |
Quick Facts
Height: up to 16.2 hands (66 inches/ 168 cm) Weight: up to 1,800 pounds Coat Colors: all colours; no breed standard for color Markings: all patterns are possible Conformation: Strong, compact cob build with a sweet head, broad chest, powerful hindquarters, and fluid movement Common Uses: driving, pleasure riding, therapy, and some Western/ English shows Temperament: Calm, gentle, people-oriented temperament, friendl Place of Origin: The British Isles; developed by the Romani people |
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