Campolina

📜 History and origin of the breed

The Campolina originated in 1870 in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais, when farmer Cassiano Campolina began selectively breeding horses with a stable nature, good gaits and elegant exterior.

The breed originally developed from an iconic pair: a black mare of Barb origin donated to Cassiano was covered by an Andalusian stallion, and the resulting foal "Monarca" became the founder of the line. Later, the breeding base was supplemented with blood from breeds such as the Mangalarga Marchador, Anglo-Norman, Holsteiner, Clydesdale and American Saddlebred.

In 1934, the breed studbook was closed and a few years later a breeders' association was established, which still manages the standard and breeding of the Campolina today.

🐎 Appearance and physical characteristics

The Campolina is a medium to large warmblood that appears harmonious and robust:

Height: usually around 150 – 160cm (15.0–15.2 hands) at the withers.

Weight: approx. 500 – 650kg for adults.

Head shape: typical trapezoidal head with a slightly convex (bulging) profile, which gives the breed its characteristic appearance.

Coat: any color is allowed - from gray and black to bay, dun, buckskin to pinto/Pampa.

Neck and body: long and muscular neck, deep chest, strong rump and well-shaped legs with firm hooves.

This combination appears elegant, but at the same time strong enough for a variety of tasks, from recreational riding to show and sports disciplines.

🧠 Nature and Temperament of the Campolina

The Campolina is known for its balanced and friendly nature:

✔️ Calm and even-tempered - it can be calm during training and in everyday situations.
✔️ Intelligent and docile - it learns commands quickly and works well with the rider.
✔️ Social and kind to people and other horses - it fits well in the herd and in the family environment.
✔️ Controlled energy - although it cannot work excessively fast, it has enough endurance and energy, which makes it a good partner for longer rides.

However, some sources warn that the lack of exercise and attention can lead to boredom or unwanted behavior in some individuals if they are not sufficiently occupied.

🐴 How they live and what are their requirements
🐄 Accommodation

The Campolina tolerates life in stables and pastures well, but needs a safe enclosure and space to move around.

Plenty of fresh water and protection from extreme conditions are key.

🐎 Nutrition

The basis is high-quality hay and pasture, supplemented according to the load.

Feed with a higher energy content may be necessary for more intensive work or training.

Taking care of metabolism is important to prevent overweight or problems such as laminitis due to improper nutrition.

🧼 Care

Hoofs: regular trimming and shoeing on harder surfaces.

Teeth: check and adjust as needed.

Veterinary care: vaccinations, deworming and preventive checks are the basis of good health.

🏇 Exercise and training

Campolinas love regular exercise - whether in the form of riding, free range or off-road walks.

Their natural "marcha" gaits (e.g. marcha batida or marcha picada) provide a comfortable ride even over longer distances.

🩺 Health and Common Diseases

The Campolina is considered a relatively robust and healthy breed, but like other large riding horses, it can have some health issues:

Health Strengths:
✔️ General resistance to various terrains and conditions, adapted to the Brazilian climate.
✔️ Long lifespan: often 20–30 years with proper care.

Most common health issues:
⚠️ Orthopedic problems: with intensive training or hard surfaces, there can be more stress on the joints and tendons.
⚠️ Laminitis and colic: general equine diseases associated with nutrition and the digestive system in poor conditions.
⚠️ Metabolic problems: such as Equine Metabolic Syndrome or Cushing's Disease (PPID) can appear in older horses, similar to other breeds.

Good prevention, regular veterinary care and proper nutrition significantly reduce the risk of chronic problems.

🐎 Types and lines

The Campolina is not divided into separate breed subspecies, but within the breed there may be different lines and breeding styles according to the preferences of the breeders:

🌟 Traditional line - emphasizes the typical convex head and classic gaits.

🌟 Modern lines - are selected with a focus on a more comfortable gait, athletic versatility and exterior for exhibition and sports disciplines.

These lines are not created as strictly separate types, but rather as breeding paths with an emphasis on certain characteristics.

🌟 Advantages and disadvantages of the breed
👍 Advantages

✅ Comfortable natural gaits - thanks to the "march" steps, the ride is stable and comfortable.
✅ Universal use: riding, hiking, dressage, driving and exhibitions.
✅ Balanced and friendly nature - suitable for a wide range of riders.
✅ Relatively robust health and long life.

👎 Cons

❌ Potential orthopedic risks if trained incorrectly.
❌ Susceptible to common equine problems (laminitis, colic) if nutrition and care are not followed.
❌ Requires regular exercise and stimulation

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