The Shagya-Araber

by Nancy R. Skakel

A 200-year old unique Arabian-based breed, the Shagya-Araber has origins in the old Hungarian Imperial Cavalry stud farms. Today, the breed is valued throughout the world for reliable athleticism, a steady, generous temperament, sound conformation, and prepotent genetics. Most of the modern European sport horse breeds have Shagyas in their foundations. As an outcross, the Shagya contributes stamina, hardiness, balance, nobility and a willing, dependable character. These same qualities have produced a breed that is a versatile sport horse, ideal for the amateur rider. 

Shagyas have especially proven themselves in distance competitions. The 2006 World Champion Endurance winner was a Shagya named Hungares. The 2008 US National Reserve CTR Champion is Wineglass Dominus, another Shagya. Shagyas are also successful in open competitions in dressage, driving and eventing, in both the US and Europe. Shagyas continue to contribute to sport horse breeding programs in Ireland, Germany, Holland, Denmark, and throughout Europe and the US.

Shagyas show their Arabian heritage in general appearance and nobility. However, their increased frame, bigger bone, strong topline and coupling, deep and smooth bodies, and longer, more sloping croup easily identify them as distinct from Arabians. Because of the highly selective history within the breed standard, these characteristics are strongly represented even in partbred Shagyas. Foals from purebred Arabians bred to registered Shagyas may be eligible for Shagya registration, although the International Shagya Society stipulates that a horse must have a minimum of seven Shagya ancestors out of the sixteen ancestors in the fourth generation, with all other ancestors being Shagya or purebred Arabian.

For more information please visit the American Shagya-Arabian Verband web site at www.shagyaregistry.com.  Pictured: Sarvar PFF, owned and bred by Nancy R. Skakel. Photo courtesy Nancy Skakel.