Most people have found that the curlies enjoy being around people and they are very reliable and have a great work ethic. The curlies are typically not flightly, they tend to do more reasoning than most breeds and are well known for being a non spooky type of horse. They would rather plant their feet than turn and run. If you handle them right, build a relationship out of trust and respect, use natural horsemanship techniques with consistent daily handling, you will have a bond with your Curly you never thought was possible with any horse. When they give you their heart, they give 100%. That is the magic and wonder of the breed.
Curlies have split manes and care for the curly hair is simple. Most people choose to not comb the mane because the hair will lose some of its curliness. The manes are often trimmed to keep them from matting or you can rub certain oils through it with your fingers. The tails can be combed. Some people choose to collect the hair that is shed from the mane and tails in the spring as it is compared to mohair and can be spun.
Most people allergic to horses can handle the Curly Horse without suffering any to very little allergic reaction – dependent on the fact that they are not running with a regular horse. Though eye catching and unusual in the show ring, Curlies have the movement, endurance and heart to excel in competition. Curlies have been shown at upper levels of dressage and show jumping, cutting and reining, endurance and others have proved to be a reliable mount and patient teacher for the weekend competitor. Curlies are characteristically quiet, level headed horses that make excellent first horses for supervised beginner riders. Curlies have carried horse-allergenic riders from beginner status through to more advanced stages of riding.
Curlies seem to be versatile no matter what your discipline, Trail, Western, English or Show. They are truly a wonderful breed and offer great variety.
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Love Thy Horse Magazine 24