Criollo Horses: Breed Profile
A South American stock horse.
Criollo horses come from Argentina and are hardy.
Purpose
They are used for ranch work.
Where the breed stands today
The breed is common in South America.
What to look for in a Criollo project animal
Look for a compact body. Have a knowledgeable adult, a breeder or your veterinarian look the animal over before you buy, and compare more than one seller.
Showing Criollo at 4-H and FFA
Horses are judged in halter, performance and showmanship classes, with rules set by the show or association. Rules differ by fair, so read your show book before you commit.
Pros
- Hardy
- Endurance
- Calm
- Horse projects teach riding, groundwork and care, and open a wide range of classes.
- Many breeds can compete in halter, pleasure and performance classes.
Cons
- Few in the United States
- Few classes
- Cost
- Horses are the most expensive livestock project once tack, farrier and vet are counted.
- A green or poorly trained horse can be dangerous for a beginner.
Caring for your project
Plan for daily care, regular farrier visits and consistent riding practice. Keep a record book from the first day, and write down feed, health care and costs, because judges and buyers both ask about them.
Getting started
A good first step is to visit a show in your area and watch the classes for your species. Talk with exhibitors, the superintendent and your club advisor about what they look for, and ask whether the show has a class for Criollo. Many students find a mentor this way, and a mentor can save you from the most expensive beginner mistakes.
Planning your budget
Add up the purchase price, feed, bedding, veterinary care, entry fees, travel and equipment before you commit. Ask your advisor what a typical project costs in your county, and plan for the chance that the animal will not qualify for the sale. A realistic budget keeps the project fun for the student and fair to the family.
Show-day tips
Arrive early so the animal and the exhibitor can settle before the class. Check the show book for the class name, age limits and check-in time, and bring your paperwork, feed, water and cleaning supplies. Judges notice calm, well-prepared exhibitors, so keep the animal clean, stay quiet in the ring and answer questions honestly. Afterward, ask the judge for feedback, because a few minutes of advice can shape next year's project.
Learning from the ring
Win or lose, every class teaches something. Write down what the judge said, compare notes with other exhibitors and talk with your advisor about one thing to improve before the next show. Students who treat each show as practice usually improve fastest, and they tend to enjoy the project more.
Questions to ask a breeder
- How old is the horse, and what is her training and show history?
- Is she registered, and with which association?
- How does she behave around other horses and new places?
- What does her health and vaccination record show?
- Is she suitable for a young or beginner rider?
Bottom line
Criollos are a hardy ranch horse.
To see how the contests work, read How Showmanship Is Judged. Suppliers, vets and feed stores near you are listed at agriculture.directory. For a lighter look at fair life, farm.fm has Sheridan’s New Cowboy: Million-Dollar Horses, Zero Cows, and the Livestock Conservancy tracks the status of rare breeds.