The Gypsy Vanner Horse

The Gypsy Vanner Horse is a beautiful and rare breed envisioned by the Romany People, commonly known as “Gypsies”, of Great Britain.  These horses were selectively bred over generations to create the ideal caravan horse.  The horses needed to be strong enough to pull a heavy caravan, gentle enough for a child to play on, and “easy keepers”.  Flashy markings made each horse distinctive and therefore less likely to be stolen. The Gypsy Vanner Horse was first imported to North America in 1996 by Dennis and Cindy Thompson of Florida. 

The Gypsy Vanner Horse is not a colour breed.  It is a body type; therefore all colours, markings and patterns are acceptable.

The Vanner has the look of a small to average size horse - 14 to 15 hands high - with a draft horse type body.   Probably the most noticeable characteristic of the Gypsy Vanner Horse is the profusion of hair.  Ideal hair is straight and silky, with some wave, curl and body being acceptable. Abundant feathering should begin at the knees on the front legs and at or near the hocks on the rear legs, extending over the front of the hooves. The mane, forelock and tail should be ample to profusely abundant, double manes are common.  And, last but certainly not least, a Vanner should have an alert and willing nature with traits of kindness, intelligence and docility.

In addition to the Gypsy Vanners’ awesome good looks, the breed possesses a temperament that is friendly and engaging.  Easy to train, smart, willing and eager to please, these horses have it all.  Although originally bred to pull the Gypsy Caravan, these horses are now being used in all disciplines.  Still used on wagons, you may also see Vanners pulling beautiful carriages, being ridden in Dressage, Hunt Seat, Saddle Seat, and Western or bareback.  Due to their gentle nature and versatility the Gypsy Vanner makes an ideal family horse.

The Gypsy Vanner Horses of OnceUponA Farm are carefully and thoughtfully bred for the qualities most cherished in a Gypsy Vanner by the Romany people.  We breed for conformation, temperament and, of course, beauty.  We breed Quality….. not quantity.