Arrow Valley Andalusians has always had a flair for colour starting with the blacks, now adding chestnut and dilutes to our herd. We still have our black stallion and have added a palomino who will be standing next year to few mares. We have several of Nio's foals around the country and some still here at the ranch. This was a great horse for our breeding program as he has some wonderful genetics mostly from the Escalera lines in Spain, near perfect conformation and great mind which he passes onto his offspring. Nio has a willingness to work and please making his get very tractable and simple to train.  His foals are as much fun and easy to work with as he is. The sales of our horses spread across the continent with several repeat buyers, good breeding speaks for itself. The ranch offers accommodation for persons interested in acquiring horses or just for a holiday. Browse through our site and see what we have to offer. Visitors are always welcome The Andalusian horse is one of the oldest pure breeds of horse in the world. Numbers are still considerably low in Canada and the US making this a much sought after breed especially with some good showing at the Olympic level.

The Andalusian Horse originated on the Iberian Peninsula, in Spain, where 2500 year old cave paintings portray this noble breed. Up to the 18th century the Andalusian horse was the beloved mount of Royalty and Captains. They were the "Royal Horses of Europe." During the 18th century, European warfare caused the Andalusian breed to decline in numbers, close to extinction. In order to reestablish their breeding programs, exportation of an Andalusian became illegal without Royal consent. The penalty for exporting these treasured horses was death.

In Canada and the USA today, the Andalusian is ridden both English and Western. This versatile breed can be found throughout North America, competing in Dressage, Driving, Cutting, Cattle work, and Jumping. Their stunning presence and charisma makes them an asset to any show ring, exhibition or parade. The Andalusian, with its love of people, creates the ideal family horse.

 

Approximately 80% of the Andalusians are gray, 15% Bay, 5% black, 1% dilute. The classic profile of the Andalusians slightly convex or straight head is an appealing feature, which balances well with their graceful, yet substantial bodies. Their thick and bountiful mane flows from an elegant, well-arched neck, (stallions have a bigger crest in their neck than mares). Andalusians' backs are moderate to short in length, the mare's backs tending to be longer than the stallions, (in order to comfortably carry their foals.) Their powerful rear quarters are complemented by a long, flowing tail. The Andalusian has a natural balance, collection, impulsion, and agility - an all around athlete.

 

Andalusian Horses possess a proud but kind temperament. They are sensitive, particularly intelligent, responsive and cooperative, learning quickly and easily when treated with respect.