Get to Know the Majestic Gypsy Vanner Horse

You’d probably recognize the breathtaking Gypsy Vanner by their striking piebald coat, feathered feet, and petite size. One of the most spectacular breeds, Gypsy Vanners have an interesting origin story—from their roots as a European cart horse to finding their stride in a number of contemporary disciplines.

Bred for their ability and temperament to pull caravans, these horses have become popular in many disciplines, thanks to their versatility and sweet, adaptable temperaments. Sometimes dubbed the “people-sized draft horse,” Gypsy Vanners are a fun, intriguing breed.

History of the Gypsy Vanner

To jump into etymology for a moment, the word “vanner” historically meant a horse suitable for pulling a caravan. Because of their roots as a breed popular with British Gypsies or Romani people, they are today called a Gypsy Vanner Horse. You might have also heard of them referred to as a “Tinker Horse” or an “Irish Cob.”

After WWII, the people of Romani descent in Britain and Ireland decided to formalize their efforts to breed the perfect horse for their lifestyle. Originally known for hauling their wagons, which varied in size but were usually quite large, this breed was required to have strength while still being small enough to maneuver through different terrains easily. They also needed to be sweet, docile, and calm. 

It wasn’t until 1996 that the breed was imported to the United States. At that point, two Americans who had “discovered” the breed overseas decided to dub them “Gypsy Vanners” in honor of their history as the horse of the Roma people.

The Breed Today

True to their history, Gypsy Vanners today still excel in the sport of driving—but they also have found success in the sports of dressage and even jumping! If you prefer Western disciplines, many Gypsy Vanners make lovely trail horses with their natural aptitude for navigating various types of terrain. The Gypsy Vanner can truly do it all—and with a touch of glam, too. 

Their docile personality traits make the Gypsy Vanner perfect for younger riders, families, or riders seeking a safe, enjoyable horse with a balanced temperament.

This unique breed is genetically similar to breeds such as the Shire, Clydesdale, Dales Pony, and Friesian. Today, they are recognized in three distinct size categories: the Mini Vanner (under 13 hands), the Classic Vanner (14-15 hands), and the Grand Vanner (over 15 hands). If you’re envisioning the traditional black-and-white piebald, you’re absolutely right. But did you know that Gypsy Vanners also come in surprising—and stunning—variations, including Skewbald, Blagdon, or Odd-Colored, which is used to describe any color with white. 

Is the Gypsy Vanner a Popular Breed?

Now the breed is extremely popular, thanks in part to their majestic manes, abundant feathering, and good nature. In 2008, the breed was accepted into the United States Dressage Federation, opening the door for many to compete in their discipline of choice on a new breed. The same year, a Gypsy Vanner had a star turn in the exceptionally popular Canadian horse drama Heartland. In 2017, the breed was highlighted on the small screen again, debuting in the Netflix show Free Rein.

We’re absolutely in love with this stunning breed and its fascinating origin story—and we hope you’ve enjoyed this mini deep-dive into the breed’s interesting and complex history.

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