Gypsy Cob UK

Gucci is a remarkable stallion, sired by Dick Smith's "Black Horse" he has plenty of sought after bloodlines.  However he is a superb example in his own right. He has very good conformation with a great sense of strength and balanced propertions.  Most people spot a well turned out horse with a summer coat and in show condition.  In fact many folk can be distracted from conformation faults by a beautifully groomed cob with a tangle free, flowing mane and feathers.  This is perhaps why my mother used to tell me that a horse is better judged in the rough.  If the horse you want to buy can be seen covered in mud in it's field with a mane full of teasels then all the better because that way you are forced to consider it's structure and natural movement.  If you still like it and start to visualise the horse with a gleaming coat and a nice saddle or set of harness you know you are seeing potential and it is probably worth catching the horse and taking a closer loo

 Tom Thumb Many folk argue as to what constitutes a good gypsy cob and with the popularity of the mini cob, opinions are arguably ever more divided.  In my opinion it is always worth bearing in mind the original purpose of the gypsy cob and the sort of qualities travellers were seeking in their horses.  Of course our reasons for keeping and breeding these horses are different to theirs in many respects.  However the qualities these people bred into their horses are actually the same qualities we need in ours today.  Our ancestors needed horses that were strong, healthy and that could stay sound in hard work.  They needed horses that were intelligent and trainable, with excellent temperament and the ability to turn their hoof to any job.  Like us they took great pleasure from the beauty and grace of their horses yet they did not breed ornaments - they bred useful horses.  I have heard many claim that a mini cob cannot be a true gypy cob as it would not have been much use be