Horse breed is a gem of Portuguese equestrian history
Known for its elegance, intelligence, and versatility, this breed has captivated horse lovers and riders for centuries. Originating from Portugal, the Alter Real is celebrated not only for its beauty but also for its contributions to classical riding and dressage.
History
The Alter Real breed’s story begins in the 18th century, during the reign of King João V of Portugal. King João V had a vision: to create a horse that was not only beautiful but also exceptional in performance. To achieve this, he started a breeding program with the aim of developing a horse that would excel in dressage and ceremonial events.The King chose Andalusian horses as the foundation for the Alter Real breed. These horses were renowned for their grace and strength. By crossbreeding them with other high-quality horses, King João V was able to create a breed with the perfect blend of elegance and athleticism. This breeding program was successful, and the Alter Real became known for its impressive appearance and superior riding qualities.
Feature details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Origin | Portugal, developed in the 18th century by King João V |
| Foundation | Crossbreeding of Andalusian horses with other high-quality breeds |
| Size | Medium to large |
| Build | Well-proportioned, muscular, elegant |
| Coat Colors | Commonly gray, bay, or black; gray is particularly popular |
| Movement | Smooth, graceful, suitable for dressage and other disciplines |
| Temperament | Calm, intelligent, easy to train |
| Primary Use | Dressage; also used in show jumping and eventing |
| Secondary Uses | Ceremonial events and traditional Portuguese events |
| Historical Significance | National treasure in Portugal, important in equestrian culture |
| Training | Responds well to positive reinforcement, consistent training |
| Care Requirements | Regular grooming, balanced diet, and exercise |
| Preservation Efforts | Ongoing programs to maintain breed standards and promote its heritage |
| Modern Role | Active in equestrian sports and ceremonial roles |
Distinctive Characteristics
- Appearance: Alter Real horses are medium to large in size with a well-proportioned, muscular build. They have a strong and elegant presence, which makes them stand out in any setting. Their long, flowing mane and tail add to their majestic look.
- Coat Colors: The most common coat colors for Alter Real horses are gray, bay, and black. Gray is particularly popular, giving the horses a classic and refined appearance.
- Movement and Temperament: These horses are known for their smooth, graceful movements. Their natural elegance makes them well-suited for dressage, where precision and style are crucial. Additionally, Alter Real horses are intelligent and have a calm demeanor, which makes them easy to train and handle
Uses and Abilities
- Dressage: One of the primary uses of Alter Real horses is in dressage. Their natural grace and ability to perform complex movements make them excellent candidates for this sport. Dressage is all about harmony between horse and rider, and the Alter Real’s responsive nature helps in achieving this perfect balance.
- Show Jumping and Eventing: While dressage is their primary discipline, Alter Real horses are also adept in show jumping and eventing. Their agility and athleticism allow them to excel in these challenging events.
- Ceremonial Events: The Alter Real has a significant role in Portuguese culture and history. They are often seen in traditional Portuguese events and ceremonies, where their regal appearance adds to the grandeur of the occasion.
Preservation and Modern Role
The Alter Real breed is considered a national treasure in Portugal, and efforts have been made to preserve its unique characteristics. The breed’s historical significance and exceptional qualities mean that there are dedicated programs and organizations working to maintain and promote the Alter Real.Today, Alter Real horses are still actively used in equestrian sports and ceremonial roles. Their presence at events and in competitions helps to keep the breed’s traditions alive. Breeders and equestrian enthusiasts continue to work on maintaining the high standards of the Alter Real, ensuring that this beautiful breed remains a part of Portugal’s rich equestrian heritage
Training and Care
- Training: Because of their intelligence and willingness to learn, Alter Real horses often respond well to training. Consistent, positive reinforcement helps them to excel in their training. Their calm temperament makes them amenable to learning new skills, whether for dressage, jumping, or other disciplines.
- Care: Like all horses, Alter Real horses need proper care to stay healthy and happy. This includes regular grooming, a balanced diet, and regular exercise. Their elegant appearance requires careful grooming to keep their coat and mane in top condition.
