Lusitano

The Lusitano breed, found in Portugal, is also known as Lusitanian, Peninsular or Portguese. They are extremely similar in appearance to the Andalusian horses from Spain.  It is a common belief that both the Andalusian and the Lusitano originated from a common source, but the Andalusian breed has developed an Oriental head shape while the Lusitano has a convex profile that is more closely matched to the old Andalusian or Iberian.

The Portuguese set up a stud Book for the Lusitano breed, in order to monitor and further improve the breeding program of their horses.  The Lusitano features genetic abilities from years of being war horses, and make them wonderful in the bullfighting rings of Portugal.  Horses must be agile and remain calm as the bullfighting in Portugal does not result in the killing of the bulls in the bullring.

The height of Lusitano horses is about 15.1 hands, but some grow over 16 hands.  Most often gray or bay, they can actually be found in any true color, including chestnut.  They have long and noble heads and a convex profile, with large, almond shaped eyes.  Their neck is powerful, and they have dense bone in fine legs.  Their movement is agile, and the Lusitano can be rode comfortably.