Monchino

The Monchino is a small horse or pony type associated with northern Spain, especially rugged Cantabrian country. It is generally described as hardy, mountain-adapted, and plain in build, with selection shaped by outdoor living rather than formal show standards. Like several Iberian regional horse populations, its identity may overlap with local management traditions and semi-feral herds.

Practical management of Monchino horses is centered on preserving hardiness without neglecting basic domestic care. Animals raised on rough grazing still need hoof checks, parasite control, and handling if they are to be used safely. For conservation-minded breeders, the priority is maintaining verified local type, avoiding unnecessary outcrossing, and selecting for sure-footed movement and temperament suited to mountain terrain.

Colors: Amber Champagne, Bay, Bay Dun, Bay Roan, Black, Blanket Appaloosa, Blue Roan, Brown, Buckskin, Champagne, Chestnut, Classic Champagne, Cremello, Dun, Dun Roan, Fewspot Appaloosa, Flaxen Chestnut, Frame Overo, Gold Champagne, Gray, Grey, Grullo, Leopard Appaloosa, Liver Chestnut, Overo, Palomino, Perlino, Piebald, Pinto, Rabicano, Red Dun, Red Roan, Roan, Sabino, Seal Bay, Silver Dapple, Skewbald, Smoky Black, Smoky Cream, Snowcap Appaloosa, Sorrel, Splash White, Tobiano, Tovero, Varnish Roan, White