Native to the Iberian peninsula, the Andalusian is an ancient horse breed that has existed for thousands of years. A popular breed among Spanish nobility, the Andalusian was historically used as a war horse, and was often given as a gift in order to aid Spanish diplomacy. Strong, agile, and intelligent, Andalusians were historically used as stock horses and for cart driving. Today they are used in a variety of equestrian events such as dressage and jumping, and have appeared in a number of Hollywood films.

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Andalusian horses are elegant and strongly built. Members of the breed have heads of medium length, with a straight or slightly convex profile. Ultra convex and concave profiles are discouraged in the breed, and are penalized in breed shows. Necks are long and broad, running to well-defined withers and a massive chest. They have a short back and broad, strong hindquarters with a well-rounded croup. The breed tends to have clean legs, with no propensity for blemishes or injuries, and energetic gaits. The mane and tail are thick and long, but the legs do not have excess feathering. Andalusians tend to be docile, while remaining intelligent and sensitive. When treated with respect they are quick to learn, responsive, and cooperative.