There is an old saying, which goes “Gypsy Gold does not chink and glitter, it gleams in the sun, and neighs in the dark”. This proverb is believed to have originated from the Claddaugh Gypsies of Galway, it is in reference to the wonderful relationship between gypsies (travellers) and their most treasured possessions, their horses. The traditional Gypsy Cob was primarily used by the gypsies of Ireland to pull their carts and caravans from place to place. These draught horses are of medium height with a very distinctive compact body. They have a very strong muscular stout build with a distinctive full main, tail, and feather. These cobs usually stand between 14.2 and 15.2 hands high. These cobs come in a variety of colours both solid and pattern.
In years gone by these horses were not only used by travellers but by farmers also, they are a strong, incredibly hard working horse which made them ideal for heavy farm work.
This particular breed of horse is pleasant and tolerant in nature making them an ideal animal to work with and be around both adults and children.The Irish Gypsy Cob has been recognised as one of Ireland's oldest breeds along with the world famous Connemara Pony and Irish Draught Horse.
The Gypsy Cob Today
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n recent years the Irish Cob has become increasingly popular in equestrian centres and in the world of hunting. This is due to their temperament, they are quiet and docile which makes them very easy to work with and also appealing to novice riders and young children. These horses have proven themselves in most disciplines imaginable in the equine world including, competitive dressage, driving, and also western sports. Cobs are been used more and more in equestrian and hunting activities, their muscular build gives them the strenght which is required for powerful jumping and hunting hard terrain.
n recent years the Irish Cob has become increasingly popular in equestrian centres and in the world of hunting. This is due to their temperament, they are quiet and docile which makes them very easy to work with and also appealing to novice riders and young children. These horses have proven themselves in most disciplines imaginable in the equine world including, competitive dressage, driving, and also western sports. Cobs are been used more and more in equestrian and hunting activities, their muscular build gives them the strenght which is required for powerful jumping and hunting hard terrain.I have had the pleasure of working with these gentle animals on many occasions in my horse riding lessons, they truly are a very pleasant and tolerant breed of horse. They don't exhibit the flighty tendencies which most other breeds have, they are relaxed, friendly and when asked, very hard working.
Reference :
E.Edwards, Dorling Kindersley, Horses
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