ANDALUSIONS-What temperament do they have, i just bought one??

Question

Hi I recently bought a 3/4 andalusion x 1/4t'bred. He is 7 years old and fairly green. I have never owned an Andalusion before and don't know alot about the breed. I am using him for dressage mainly as he has great hock movements. I am finding that he is very spooky and jumpy. I am wondering if there breed has anything to do with this?

He is a lovely friendly smart horse but just seems a bit ditsy-for better words- can you shed any light on what i might be dealing with? Thanks

Answer 1

I believe you are dealing with a combination of things with your Andalusion.  First thing pops out at me is why is this horse still green at 7 years of age?  At 7 he should be finished out and accomplished in dressage or any other performance work he is suitable for.  He could be jumpy for so many reasons.  I still think every thing goes back to starting him so late.  I trail ride with a friend that has two Andalusions.  She will ride Thor and pony Hercules behind, and visa-versa.  They are 4.  Gentle poised giants.  Bookends to look at them in their pasture.  Can I suggest if you have the means to do so, then take your horse on simple trail rides with experienced horses.  We train young ones to be social and spook free by allowing them on trails.  They feel relaxed because the experienced horses are relaxed.  Good luck to you.  The Andalusion is a beautiful horse.  I love the T breed but couldn't sign off without saying, your big boy may have just enough in that 1/4 of his bloodline to off set the passive nature of the Andalusion.  Safe riding, Linda