Rare and Beautiful Silver Dapple Gypsy Vanners for Sale

The Rare Silver Dapple Gypsy Vanner

The Gypsy Vanner horse breed, also known as the Irish Cob, is desired for its flashy feathering, thick mane and tail, and docile temperament. Of all the Vanner color variations, the rare silver dapple stands out as truly exceptional. When a silver dapple Gypsy Vanner becomes available for sale, emotions run high among horse lovers hoping to take one home.

Origins of the Gypsy Vanner Breed

The Gypsy Vanner breed originated in the British Isles, developed by Romanichal Gypsies as the ultimate utility horse. Also called a "Gypsy Cob" or "Irish Cob," the Vanner horse had to be strong enough for pulling the Gypsy family's traditional vardo wagons, yet calm and sensible for the children to be safe around.

In addition to their willing work ethic and pleasant temperament, these cobs were selectively bred for their long, thick manes and tails, abundant feathering on their legs, and flashy piebald or skewbald color patterns. Over generations, the Gypsy people crafted the ideal all-purpose family horse.

The Rare and Beautiful Silver Dapple

Of all the striking Vanner color variations, the silver dapple is one of the rarest and most highly desired. The silver dapple Vanner has a black base coat with the silver dapple gene causing white hairs to be interspersed throughout the black. This gives a sparkling effect, like a starry night sky.

Silver dapple Vanners often have strikingly contrasting points, with a bright white mane and tail. Their legs are usually black with abundant feathering in white or silver. They may have high stockings or large belly spots. Every silver dapple Gypsy Vanner has a unique pattern that only enhances their mystical allure.

Availability and Bidding Wars

It's estimated there are only around 2,500 Gypsy Vanners in the world, with even fewer of those being silver dapples. So when a silver dapple Vanner becomes available for sale, especially one with exceptional conformation and pedigree, it often triggers intense bidding wars among collectors and breeders.

Top specimens frequently sell for over $100,000 at elite auctions. Emotions run high as parties vie to take one of these exceptional horses home. Tears of joy and disappointment are not uncommon.

Finding Your Dream Silver Dapple

While the elite silver dapple Gypsy Vanners sell for sky-high prices, more moderately priced horses can sometimes be found. Here are some tips for finding your dream silver dapple:

• Check sale boards and forums like Gypsy Cob for Sale USA on Facebook
• Contact knowledgable breeders about upcoming litters
• Check sites like equinenow.com for sale listings
• Attend horse auctions and make connections

Landing a silver dapple Vanner requires persistence, patience, and sometimes being willing to spend more than you hoped. But devoting the effort to find that perfect magical unicorn of a horse can yield an exceptionally rewarding payoff.

Is the Silver Dapple Vanner Right for You?

Before embarking on finding a silver dapple Gypsy Vanner, be sure you can properly care for one of these exceptional but challenging horses. Consider factors like:

• Housing - access to pasture, shelter, etc.
• Feeding and health care costs
• Farrier needs - their hooves require frequent trimming
• Exercise and mental stimulation
• Grooming time and tools for that lush hair

Caring for a Gypsy Vanner is very rewarding but also demanding. Be honest if you have the resources and time before bringing one of these magnificent horses home.

The Thrilling Hunt for the Rare Silver Dapple

Searching for a silver dapple Gypsy Vanner can be an emotional rollercoaster with intense highs and lows. But landing that special pony who seems destined to be yours makes it all worthwhile. The journey to find a rare silver dapple Vanner for sale becomes a magical quest in itself.

FAQs

What makes the silver dapple coloration so rare in Gypsy Vanners?

The silver dapple gene is relatively uncommon. Both parents must be carriers of the gene for there to be a 25% chance of a silver dapple foal. So the offspring has low odds of having this dilution color pattern.

What health issues are common in Gypsy Vanners?

Some health problems seen more often in Gypsy Vanners include progressive retinal atrophy, equine metabolic syndrome, and congenital myotonia. Reputable breeders screen breeding stock for these issues.

How much grooming do Gypsy Vanners require?

Their long, lush manes, tails, and leg feathering require almost daily grooming to prevent tangles and keep the hair clean. Most owners also clip the leg hair short in summer for comfort.

What is the typical temperament of a Gypsy Vanner?

This breed is known for having an exceptionally calm, gentle, and friendly personality. They are highly bonded with their people and make wonderful riding and driving horses even for children.