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Gypsy Vanner Horses

The breed of horse known as gypsy vanner horses (aka Tinker horse, Irish Cob, Piebald) were originally bred to pull gypsy caravans throughout the United Kingdom. Although the gypsy vanner horse is growing in popularity, it is still quite a rare breed in the United States.

Average size: 13 to 15 hands

Gypsy vanner horses have a history that goes back more than 60 years in the U.K., when a band of nomadic gypsies began to breed a horse that was powerful and strong enough to pull their caravans across the country. The gypsy vanner horse they created was exceptionally trustworthy, gentle and strong.

To the gypsies of the United Kingdom, the horse was their most valued possession, and when these gypsy horse breeders saw a horse they liked, they would exclaim – “that one’s a vanner”. It is from this expression of excellence that gypsy vanner horses owe their modern name.

Gypsy vanner horses are usually quite compact and sturdy, generally standing between 13 and 15 hands high. The average weight of the gypsy vanner horse runs between 1,100 and 1,700 pounds, and this breed of horse is typified by a broad chest and heavy hips, combined with a short neck, a short back and long hairs. This confirmation makes them perfect for pulling carts, and gypsy vanner horses are exceptional harness horses in many situations.