Probably a stupid question...but...

[littleshetland]

Is there a difference between Lusitanos and Andalusians? I know Luso's are from Portugal, the others from Spain and I believe there are other breeds from the Iberian peninsula, but do they exhibit any significantly different traits? (personality? slightly different confirmation?)
Apologies if this is a dumb question.

 

[Cortez]

Not at all a dumb question; Lusitanos and PRE's (Pura Raza Espagnol; the "new" name for Andalusians) are bred from the same Iberian base stock but have maintained different stud books for a long time and are considered different breeds. There are some fairly subtle differences; Lusitanos have retained some of the more old fashioned characteristics such as convex facial profiles, and often have straighter croups than their Spanish cousins. Spanish breeders often say Lusitanos have more difficult temperaments: Portuguese breeders say the same thing about the PRE's, so make your own mind up about that! I have had and trained both breeds, love them both and don't really see a huge difference TBH.

Perhaps there is more variation in size and colour with the Lusos, although that is changing now as the Spanish breeders are aiming to increase size and colour variation in the past 10 years or so. Over all I would say that the Lusitanos have been bred more for utility (good backs, strong hocks and movement), the PRE's can be very beautiful and not as strong, but there will be many horses that bely both statements. There are great horses in both breeds.

 

[littleshetland]

Aaah - thank you Cortez. Someone asked me about the difference and I was stumped! I hope they ask me again and I can pretend to an expert.......!