The Galiceno is a horse breed from Mexico, although not technically a horse in size. Despite that they never grow above 14hh, they are still always considered a horse, not a pony.

Breed Characteristics

The Galiceno is quick, athletic, brave, willing, and quick- to-learn, making them very easy to train. They have good stamina, and have a fast running-walk gait, which is very smooth and comfortable to ride. Their stride is ground-covering.

They are very strong, able to carry a man all day in heat and over rought terrain, despite their small size and are considered small horses.

The Galiceno has a nicely proportioned head with alert ears, but does not show overly pony characteristics. The neck is short, muscular, and slightly arched. They are narrow in the chest and body, finely built, but are still quite strong and powerful. The shoulders have some slope, they back is short and compact, and the croup is sloping. The legs of the Galiceno tough and hard. The hooves may be small, and the natural stance of the horse may not always be correct.

The horses can be any solid color, and between 12.2 and 14 hh.

Breed History

The pony developed in Mexico from horses imported to South America, mostly thought to be Garrano and the Galician pony of Spain, by Hernando Cortes. It is highly prized in Mexico, being tough with strong powers of endurance, and sound.

The breed was introduced to the United States in 1958, and in 1959, a Breeders' Association was formed to maintain the breed. Numbers are still quite small. The pony is suitable for riding, pack, and draft work. They are also good children's ponies and are also used by Mexican cowboys.