The Lusitano horse has a long and unique history. This breed originated in Portugal. They have speed, intelligence, and a natural cow sense that makes them incredible horses. This breed was originally used as wild bull-fighting horses. They tend to excel on ranches and cattle drives thanks to their natural cow instincts.

Why The Lusitano Has Cow Sense

As the story goes, the ancestor of Lusitano horses lived in close association with the wild bulls of Portugal, along the Tejo River. Large predators would prey on the horses, but they were fearful of the wild bulls. The horses quickly realized if they stayed close to the bulls, then they would be protected. The wild bulls would attack the horses if they got too close though, so it was a careful balancing act. These ancestors developed a keen ability to read and anticipate cow movement.

"As a side note, all of the American Horse breeds descend from the Iberian Horse. The cow sense of the American Quarter horse could very well be inherited from the Iberian horse."

The United States Lusitano Association

Later on in the 18th Century, King Filipe V of Spain outlawed bullfighting on horseback. The Spanish began to breed horses for parades, carriage, and presentations. The Portuguese, on the other hand, continued to focus on a horse bred for bullfighting, ranching, and field work. This is why Lusitanos are known for being brave in the face of danger. It has been bred into them for centuries!

Nowadays, you can see this incredible breed performing in bullfighting, ranch work, dressage, and working equitation. You can learn more about their history at the United States Lusitano Association.

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