Puro Sangue Lusitano
Registry Code: PSL
Also Known As: Lusitano, PSL, Portugeuse Horse, Peninsular Horse, Betico-Lusitano, Alter Real
The Puro Sangue Lusitano horse breed (Lusitano) is a baroque breed originating in Portugal with a history dating back to prehistoric times. They are closely related to the Spanish "Andalusian" (Pura Raza Española) horses, and were in fact considered to be the same breed until the Lusitano became recognized as its own separate breed in the 1966. They are very similar to their Spanish counterparts in almost every way, and were historically bred for war, dressage and bullfighting. Today, they Lusitano excels in dressage and driving, and the breed is still used for bull fighting in some communities.
Average Height: 15.2 – 15.3 hh (157 – 160 cm)
Most Common Colours: Grey, Chestnut & Bay
Recognized Colours: Chestnut, Black, Bay, Grey, Dun dilutions, Cream dilutions, Peal dilutions
The Alter Real is a sub-type of the Lusitano breed which is bred exclusively by the Alter Real State Stud in Portugal, using only bay horses in their breeding program. For the purpose of IHA registration, Alter Real horses should be registered under Lusitano.