Mary Allen
Introduction to the Campolina breed
The Campolina breed is a Brazilian breed of horse that was first developed in the early 20th century. The breed was created by Cassiano Campolina, a Brazilian rancher who wanted to breed a horse that was large and strong enough to work on his ranch. The Campolina horse is known for its strength, size, and versatility. It is a popular breed in Brazil and is also gaining popularity in other parts of the world.
What is a breed standard?
A breed standard is a set of guidelines that describe the ideal physical characteristics, temperament, and other qualities of a particular breed of animal. The breed standard is used as a guide by breeders and judges to evaluate animals and determine whether they meet the standards for the breed. Breed standards are created by breed associations and are based on the history and characteristics of the breed.
Why is a breed standard important?
A breed standard is important because it helps maintain the integrity and purity of a breed. By establishing a standard for the breed, breeders are able to selectively breed animals that meet the desired characteristics, which helps ensure that the breed remains consistent over time. A breed standard also helps judges evaluate animals in shows and competitions, which helps maintain the quality of the breed. Additionally, a breed standard helps protect consumers by ensuring that animals marketed as a particular breed meet the desired characteristics.
History of the Campolina breed standard
The Campolina breed standard was developed in Brazil in the 1940s. The standard was created by the Brazilian Campolina Breeders Association and was based on the physical characteristics and temperament of the breed. The breed standard has been revised over time to reflect changes in the breed and to maintain consistency.
Physical characteristics of the Campolina
The physical characteristics of the Campolina include a large and muscular body with a broad chest and strong legs. The head is medium-sized with a straight or slightly convex profile. The neck is strong and well-muscled. The back is short and strong, and the hindquarters are well-muscled with a high-set tail. The Campolina has a calm and intelligent expression.
Ideal size and weight of the Campolina
The ideal size of the Campolina is between 15.2 and 16.2 hands high. The ideal weight of a mature Campolina is between 1,000 and 1,300 pounds. The breed is known for its strength and endurance, which makes it well-suited for work on ranches and in other agricultural settings.
Temperament requirements for the Campolina
The Campolina is known for its calm and gentle temperament. The breed is easy to handle and is often used as a riding and driving horse. The breed standard requires that the Campolina be calm, intelligent, and willing to work.
Coat color and markings for the Campolina
The Campolina can come in a variety of coat colors, including bay, brown, chestnut, black, and gray. The breed standard allows for white markings on the face and legs, but excessive white markings are considered a fault.
Gait and movement of the Campolina
The Campolina is known for its smooth and easy gait, which is called the marcha. The marcha is a four-beat gait that is similar to a running walk. The breed standard requires that the Campolina have a smooth and fluid marcha with good extension and flexion of the joints.
Faults and disqualifications in the breed standard
The breed standard lists several faults that can disqualify a Campolina from being considered a purebred, including a white face, blue eyes, and excessive white markings. Other faults include a short, narrow body, a weak back, and a stiff or uneven marcha.
How is the Campolina breed standard enforced?
The Campolina breed standard is enforced by the Brazilian Campolina Breeders Association. The association maintains a registry of purebred Campolina horses and requires that horses meet the breed standard in order to be registered. The association also oversees shows and competitions for the breed and judges animals based on the breed standard.
Conclusion: The importance of the Campolina breed standard
The Campolina breed standard is important for maintaining the integrity and purity of the breed. By establishing guidelines for the physical characteristics, temperament, and other qualities of the breed, the standard helps ensure that the Campolina remains consistent over time. The breed standard also helps judges evaluate animals in shows and competitions, which helps maintain the quality of the breed. Overall, the Campolina breed standard is a vital component in preserving and promoting this unique and valuable breed of horse.