The Campolina is a horse breed from Brazil with a unique history and appearance. These horses originate from the state of Minas Gerais, where they were first bred in the late 19th century.
Campolina horses are known for their smooth gait and gentle temperament, making them popular for both riding and driving. They have a distinctive look, with a convex head profile and long, silky mane and tail.
Campolinas come in a range of colours, including solid, spotted, and roan.
Cassiano Campolina, a farmer from Minas Gerais, played a key role in developing this breed. He crossed local Brazilian horses with imported breeds to create a strong, versatile horse suited to the country’s climate and terrain.
Today, Campolinas are prized in Brazil and are gaining recognition abroad as a fine example of Brazilian horse breeding.
Breed Characteristics and Standards
Campolina horses are known for their distinctive physical traits and gentle temperament. They are prized for their unique appearance and suitability as family horses.
Physical Traits and Colours
Campolina horses stand out with their impressive stature. The average height ranges from 15 to 16 hands (152-163 cm) at the withers.
These horses boast a muscular build and a convex profile, often called a Roman nose. This curved nose is a key feature of the breed standard.
Coat colours in Campolinas are diverse. Common shades include:
- Black
- Dun
- Bay
- Buckskin
- Pinto
- Grey
- Palomino
Some Campolinas display primitive markings, adding to their unique appearance. The Campolina Breeders Association keeps a registry of these horses to maintain breed purity.
Behaviour and Temperament
Campolinas are known for their docile nature, making them ideal for pleasure riding and family use. These horses are active and have good stamina, yet they remain easy to manage.
Their temperament is typically:
- Well-behaved
- Easy-mannered
- Trainable
These traits make Campolinas popular as family horses. They adapt well to different riders and situations.
Their calm demeanor and willingness to learn make them a joy to work with.
As a gaited breed, Campolinas offer a smooth ride. This quality, combined with their gentle nature, makes them suitable for riders of various skill levels.
Riding and Uses of Campolina
Campolina horses are prized for their smooth gaits, versatility, and gentle nature. These traits make them popular for a variety of riding styles and uses.
Performance and Riding Styles
Campolinas excel in several riding disciplines. Their most notable feature is the “true marcha” gait, which comes in two forms: marcha picada and marcha batida. These smooth, four-beat gaits provide a comfortable ride over long distances.
Campolinas are often seen in competitive events, showcasing their skills in dressage and show classes. Many horse enthusiasts enjoy them for leisure riding and trail adventures.
Their steady temperament makes them suitable for riders of all skill levels.
These horses also perform well in driving competitions. Their strength and endurance allow them to pull carriages with ease.
Breeding and Genetic History
The Campolina breed traces its roots to the late 19th century in Entre Rios de Minas, Brazil. Cassiano Campolina began the breeding programme at Fazenda Tanque, aiming to create a versatile and robust horse.
The foundation stallion, Monarca, was bred to the mare Medéia. This pairing set the standard for the breed. Over time, other breeds were added to improve specific traits:
- Anglo-Norman: For size and strength
- Clydesdale: To enhance bone structure
- Holsteiner: To refine conformation
- Andalusian: To improve gait and movement
Barb ancestry also plays a role in the breed’s hardiness. Today, a closed studbook helps maintain the Campolina’s unique characteristics.
Health and Maintenance
Campolinas are known for their sturdy build and good health. They typically live 20-25 years with proper care.
Regular vet check-ups, vaccinations, and deworming are essential for their well-being.
These horses need a balanced diet rich in high-quality forage. Depending on their workload, they may require additional grain or supplements. Fresh water should always be available.
Daily grooming helps keep their coat healthy and allows owners to check for any skin issues. Regular hoof care, including trimming or shoeing every 6-8 weeks, is crucial.
Campolinas benefit from regular exercise to maintain their fitness and mental well-being. A mix of riding, lunging, and turnout time keeps them happy and healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Campolina horses have some unique traits and an interesting history. Here are answers to common questions about this Brazilian breed.
What are the distinct characteristics of a Campolina horse?
Campolina horses are known for their large size and smooth gaits. They typically stand 15 to 16 hands high and weigh 500 to 600 kg.
These horses have a convex head profile and long, arched necks. Campolinas come in many colours, including grey, bay, and chestnut. They have thick manes and tails. Their legs are strong with good bone structure.
Can you outline the history and origin of the Campolina breed?
The Campolina breed was developed in Brazil in the early 1900s. It was created by Cassiano Campolina on his farm in the state of Minas Gerais.
Campolina crossed local Brazilian mares with an Andalusian stallion. He later added Clydesdale, Holsteiner, and Anglo-Norman bloodlines. The breed was officially recognised in 1934.
What factors should be considered when purchasing a Campolina?
When buying a Campolina, look at its conformation and movement. Check that it has the breed’s typical head shape and smooth gaits.
Ask about the horse’s temperament and training. Campolinas are known for being gentle and easy to handle. Make sure the horse is healthy and has proper documentation.
How does the Campolina compare with other South American horse breeds?
Campolinas are larger than many other Brazilian breeds like the Mangalarga Marchador. They have smoother gaits than some South American breeds.
Campolinas are less common outside Brazil compared to breeds like the Criollo or Paso Fino. They are mainly used for riding and light farm work rather than cattle herding.
What is the approximate population of Campolina horses presently?
The current Campolina population is estimated at around 85,000 horses. Most are found in Brazil, especially in the states of Minas Gerais and São Paulo.
Small numbers of Campolinas exist in other countries. The breed’s population has grown steadily since the 1990s.
How many recognised horse breeds are there globally?
There are over 350 recognised horse breeds worldwide. This number can vary slightly depending on the source.
New breeds are still being developed and recognised. Some rare breeds are also at risk of extinction. Breed registries and conservation efforts help maintain horse diversity.
