August 12, 2025, 8:58 am | Read time: 4 minutes
Sometimes it’s the smallest ones that leave the biggest impression. The Falabella proves just that: With its gentle nature, intelligence, and delicate stature, it charms people of all ages. And not only that—their role as guide horses for the blind makes them true everyday heroes!
Origin of the Falabella
The history of Falabellas may go back further than you think, all the way to 1845 in the heart of the Pampas in Argentina—literally.
It was there that Irish breeder Patrick Newtall discovered remarkably small ponies among an indigenous tribe. Enthralled by the animals, he took some specimens with him. Over several years, he bred his own small herd on his ranch in Argentina. By the late 1870s, Newtall passed on his knowledge and entire breeding operation to his son-in-law, Juan Falabella.
This laid the foundation for the later naming of the breed. In the following years, Juan Falabella crossed the ponies with other breeds. Initially, with Shetland ponies to maintain the size of the Falabella. Later, Appaloosas and English Thoroughbreds were added for an elegant, sporty exterior.
The international breakthrough came in the 1960s. From then on, the ponies were sold to selected buyers. One of the first purchasers was none other than American President John F. Kennedy. In 1970, the breed was officially named Falabella.
Appearance
Delicate, dainty, and enchanting—with a height of 65 cm to 90 cm, these “miniature horses” live up to their name. The smallest documented specimen was just 30.4 cm tall.
Typical of Falabellas is their slender build. Particularly striking is the finely shaped head with a slightly inward-curved nasal bone and relatively small ears. The neck is usually covered with a thick, dense, sometimes bushy mane. The short yet strong athletic legs are immediately noticeable. Falabellas are almost lightweight, with a body mass of 50 kg to 70 kg. Their coat colors are extremely varied.
Fun Fact: Falabellas have only 17 ribs instead of the usual 18.
Character & Temperament of the Falabella
Gentle and smart—a fitting description for this charming horse breed. Like their larger relatives, they are considered very intelligent animals. They are characterized by their curiosity, interest, and teachability. Falabellas are up for any fun and are totally good-natured. Exceptions prove the rule—even ponies can have bad days and be stubborn and obstinate. All in all, they remain extremely lovable.
Gait & Discipline
Helpful powerhouses—the basic gaits of walk, trot, and gallop are mastered flawlessly by the miniature horses. Due to their size, they should not be ridden. Instead, they excel as show performers and are happy to demonstrate this with clever tricks. Sometimes they are also harnessed to light carriages.
Thanks to their gentle nature, Falabella horses are excellent for therapeutic use. As guide horses for the blind, they have been providing valuable services in this area for years.
Proper Care & Maintenance
Little horse, lots of space—just because they are significantly smaller than their counterparts doesn’t mean Falabella horses need less space. It’s important to ensure they have enough room to move. Open stable housing is generally not recommended, as Falabellas tend to get cold due to their low body mass. In winter, it’s advisable to blanket the ponies.
Otherwise, Falabellas enjoy being housed in good company, preferably with ponies of similar height.
Nutrition
For a balanced diet, roughage forms the basis. Since the ponies tend to be overweight, it’s a good idea to offer hay in nets to slow down food intake. Additional concentrated feed is usually not necessary, but it can be an option if needed. The same goes for mineral feed. Coordination with a veterinarian is necessary to provide the best possible feeding plan tailored to the individual animal.
How long do horses live?
Shire Horse–The Largest Horse Breed in the World
Susceptibility to Certain Diseases
Unfortunately, high selection in breeding can lead to inbreeding. Offspring may have particularly vulnerable immune systems. Additionally, weak joints and bones can lead to limitations in load-bearing and movement.
Births of foals also remain risky. The mares’ bodies are often not ideally built for the strains of childbirth, making cesarean sections almost more common.
Falabella at a Glance
- Character: intelligent, good-natured, curious
- Height: 65–90 cm, 50–70 kg
- Coat color: all allowed
- Gait: brisk
- Discipline: guide horse for the blind, therapy horse
- Special features: prone to overweight and weak joints