Irish Cob Studbook

HSI was Approved by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine to maintain the Irish Cob Studbook on a temporary basis in October 2013. The Irish Cob is a native Irish breed and although it has a long history the Studbook was only officially founded in 1998. Prior to this linages were passed down verbally from generation to generation. The breed is referred to worldwide by many different names such as Gypsy Cob, Gypsy Horse, Gypsy Vanner and Irish Tinker.

The Irish Cob breed was developed by the Travelling Community in Ireland. For hundreds of years these sturdy, hardworking horses pulled wagons and carts throughout Ireland, Britain and Europe. The breed adapted to be strong and versatile. They needed to be gentle enough to be handled by children but sturdy enough to pull a wagon all day.

Irish Cobs have an imposing appearance with a stout, powerful body. They are noted for their high knee action, excellent temperament and flowing hair. Their wide short backs make them very comfortable under saddle. The Irish Cob is ideal for leisure riders, being very good weight bearers, versatile and kind. They are suited for children, pony clubs and adults alike for riding and driving.

Irish Cob Horse Studbook Stallion inspections

Stallion inspections for the Irish Cob Studbook will be carried out annually in the spring and autumn. In addition, breeders/owners that have a minimum of 10 horses to be inspected may apply to HSI to have their horses inspected at their premises providing they have suitable facilities.

Stallions must be a minimum of 2 years of age to be presented for Irish Cob Studbook inspections. At the inspections Irish Cob stallions are assessed on their conformance to the Irish Cob breed standard and their conformation and their movement in hand in walk and trot.

Stallions meeting the inspection requirements and are eligible for classification in the Main Section of the Irish Cob Studbook are awarded ‘Main Elite Stallion Class’ status. Stallions that are not eligible for the Main Section can achieve classification in the Supplementary Elite/Supplementary Section of the Irish Cob Studbook.

CLICK HERE to download the Procedures and Guidelines for the Irish Cob Studbook Inspections

Irish Cob Horse Studbook Mare Inspections

Mare inspections for the Irish Cob Studbook will be carried out annually in spring and autumn. In addition, breeders/owners that have a minimum of 10 horses to be inspected may apply to HSI to have their horses inspected at their premises provided the venue has suitable facilities.

Mares must be a minimum of 2 years of age to be presented for Irish Cob Studbook inspections. At the inspections Irish Cob mares are assessed on their conformance to the Irish Cob breed standard and their conformation and their movement in hand in walk and trot.
Mares meeting the inspection requirements and are eligible for classification in the Main Section of the Irish Cob Studbook are awarded ‘Main Elite Mare Class’ status. Mares that are not eligible for the Main Section can achieve classification in the Supplementary Section of the Irish Cob Studbook.

CLICK HERE to download the Procedures and Guidelines for the Irish Cob Studbook Mare Inspections

The Irish Cob Studbook Inspections 2023 are now open for entry