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Frequently
Asked Questions
Q. What is a Gypsy
Cob? Gypsies have long been known as breeders of good horses but war took it's toll, even amongst the horses. Many of the best horses were conscripted by the British army and never returned. However, the army would not take colored horses so those were the horses the gypsies were left to use. Around the 1950's, the gypsies started deliberately breeding in the heavy feather and bone. By the 1970's, the type was firmly in place and some spectacular Cobs had emerged. These Cobs represent the culmination of carefully planned breedings and the gypsies are justifiably proud of their beautiful Cobs and consider them to be of their most prized possessions. Gypsy Cobs are sometimes referred to as Irish Cobs, Coloured Cobs, Traditional Cobs and, here in North America, Gypsy Vanners. Though the term Vanner is used widely in America, it means something entirely different in the UK. Q. What is a Drum Horse? A. A Drum Horse started out as horse serving in the British army and performing the job of carrying a rider and 2 kettledrums. Taking the inspiration from several of the modern day Drum Horse exhibiting pinto coloring and feather, a group of like minded individuals and the Gypsy Cob and Drum Horse Association are now working to develop the Drum Horse into a breed, similar to a Gypsy Cob but larger and being developed specifically as a heavy riding horse. This is being done by utilizing the bloodlines of the Gypsy Cob crossed with the Shire, Clydesdale and/or Friesian breeds. For more information visit www.GCDHA.com
Q. What can Gypsy Cobs and Drum Horses do? A. Many Gypsy Cobs and Drum Horses are quite athletic and are suitable for western pleasure, trail riding, saddle seat classes, low to mid level dressage, hunting and, of course, make awesome driving horses. Here at Drum and Feather Farm, we specialize in Gypsy Cobs and Drum Horses of exceptional performance abilities. But it should be noted that many of the horses now preferred by the gypsies themselves, (smaller and more thick bodied) are probably best suited for pleasure driving or cart classes rather than the performance demands of other disciplines. Q. What is the
difference between a Gypsy Cob, Gypsy Vanner and Drum Horse Q. Are there any health issues with this breed? A. For the most part, these horses are extremely hardy animals with a robust constitution. However, there are several things you should be aware of, before purchasing a Gypsy Cob or Drum Horse. First, while all the feather is beautiful, it is also a lot of work to keep in peak condition. And the more hair a horse has, the harder it might be to keep the skin beneath it healthy and comfortable for the horse. The hair can trap moisture, dirt and other irritants that can create a condition called scratches. This is where small sores erupt and will start to itch. The horse will rub and chew on his legs trying to alleviate the itching. This can wreak havoc with the feather and can also lead to a worsening of the condition. It's important to keep the legs clean and dry (without causing the skin to "dry out") and to routinely check the skin beneath the hair. Being a draft breed, they also are more prone to some breeding/foaling issues that you will want to acquaint yourself with. Feel free to contact us if you would like more information. Note: If a seller does not offer this information, without being asked, they may be more interested in the sales than in well-being of both the horse and the client. Q.
If I breed my mare to a
Gypsy Cob or Drum Horse stallion, will the foal look like a Gypsy Cob? A Note On Crossbreeding: Before contemplating breeding your mare, or stallion, you should first assess their qualities and their deficiencies. There is NO perfect horse and to breed responsibly you must be very aware of the flaws and the likelihood of passing them on. Do not breed your mare to a stallion that you "just love" simply because you like him. All stallions (and mares) should be considered on how well they will compliment your horse and strengthen any weaknesses. If you love the Gypsy Cobs, please don't try to crossbreed a non-feathered mare in an effort to get a cheap replica. You will be disappointed and you will have the very great responsibility of another living, breathing, feeling horse in this world. It would be far better to save your money, for several years, if need be, to get what you truly want and will be happy with for a very, very long time. Q. What Registry do you suggest for my Gypsy Cob or Drum Horse? A. There are 3 registries in America all with similar standards and purpose, though some rules vary. The Gypsy Cob and Drum Horse Assoc. ( www.GCDHA.com ) is our registry of choice. It's not only the first democratic registry in North America, it also has the largest international membership (including Romany breeders), is the first to require stallion inspection and licensing, provides access to Romany breeders, offers group trips abroad and strives to educate its members and the public on the true history of the breed, the abilities and requirements of the breed, in recognizing the true breed and perpetuating it through responsible breeding practices. However, we strongly urge each individual to look at all 3 registries and talk to a large cross section of each membership before deciding on any one registry. Many people have made the decision to register with 2, or even all 3 registries.
For more information 317-745-6746
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