If you are looking for a Gypsy Vanner it may be useful to bear in mind that really good examples of the breed change hands among the gypsies of England and Ireland for staggering sums of money (A stunning yearling filly sold at Appleby for nearly $160,000 in '07!) This, combined with the cost of importation of breeding stock means that, unfortunately, quality Gypsy Vanners are not often cheap.

But if you search the internet you may well find all sorts of hairy (and not-so-hairy) lesser quality horses that are being sold under the guise of being a true quality Vanner. It pays to do your homework and talk to as many people as you can. Especially if you are considering a foal since it is easier to pass off poor quality in a cuddly, fuzzy foal.

Confusingly, price is not always a good guide though. A very expensive Vanner is not necessarily top quality either! Be careful.

Keep in mind that as well as breeding their highly-prized "blood", stock horses, many gypsies also breed "trade" or "dealer/knacker" horses. These are treated as a commodity and are much lesser specimens. They can be easily found in their thousands at the fairs and sales, riding schools and trekking centers all around Britain. These "trade" horses are not quality breeding stock and a wise purchaser will not buy them as such. A very great many of these trade horses have found their way to the US unfortunately. And are now being bred in great numbers.

Conformation aside, one of the first clues that you are looking at a poorer specimen is a lack of feather. This is why you will see so many reputable breeders harping on about feather. Not because we like it (though we do!) but because it's presence is of vital importance and its lack may indicate poor breeding practices. In the eyes of a top gypsy breeder, a horse without excellent feather is worthless as a breeding animal. A heavily feathered Vanner is not necessarily a great individual...but one lacking excellent feather can never be considered to be top quality.

Another sign is a horse that lacks bone and great substance. These are often first or second crosses with either local ponies or light horses. The gypsies don't value these horses but will cheerfully sell you one if you want!! Remember, this is a DRAFT breed!
 

Please, by all means, do your homework before your new purchase. You will find the Gypsy world full of wonderful people. Don't be shy...jump right in and pick up that phone, or send an e-mail!

If there is anything at all that we can do to assist you in your search then please don't hesitate to contact us. We can put you in touch with trustworthy and reputable breeders here in the US and also in England.

Above all, do know that these horses are well worth taking your time to research. It's hard to describe the joy and delight they bring to their new family. In every regard they are thoroughly worthwhile! 

~~~ GOOD LUCK! ~~~