Raising Lusitanos
the basest horn of his hoof is more musical than the pipe of Hermes.”
THE LUSITANO
Breeding Lusitanos is at the heart of our work at La Donaira. Currently, we have more than 70, bred and trained according to the principles of natural horsemanship, also known as natural dressage or horse whispering. By understanding the natural instincts and communication of horses, we are able to train them without causing stress or fear, and as a result horses are happier and more receptive.
The Lusitano is the oldest saddle horse in the world, in fact DNA analysis suggests that they were domesticated before the Neolithic. It is said that the close collaboration between the Lusitano and the rider observed by visitors to the Iberian Peninsula more than 3000 years ago, gave rise to the myth of the centaur. Because of their speed and strength they were known as Sons of the Wind.
We want to preserve the quality, versatility and beauty of these ancient horses and evolve their unique genetic code into a 21st century sport horse for dressage, working equitation and advanced leisure riding. Their nobility, intelligence and sensitivity also make our horses ideal partners for horse therapy.
