Irish Cob Studbook
Horse Sport Ireland the Irish Cob and Irish Cob Part-Bred Studbooks.
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, cob 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.
A copy of the Irish Cob and Irish Cob Part-Bred Studbook Breeding Programme is available HERE and Rules and procedures available HERE.
Breeding Objectives & Standards
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.
Irish Cob and Irish Cob Part-Bred registration
For information on registering your Irish Cob please visit www.horsesource.ie.
Irish Cob and Irish Cob Part-Bred studbook inspections
Irish Cob and Irish Cob Part-Bred studbook inspections for mares and stallions are carried out annually in the spring and autumn. In addition, breeders/owners that have a minimum of 15 horses to be inspected may apply to HSI to have their horses inspected at their premises providing they have suitable facilities.
Equines must be a minimum of 2 years of age to be presented for Irish Cob and Irish Cob Part-Bred studbook inspections. At the inspections Irish Cob and Irish Cob Part-Bred stallions are assessed on their conformance to the breed standard and their conformation and their movement in hand in walk and trot.
Cobs meeting the inspection requirements and are eligible for classification in the main section of the Irish Cob and Irish Cob Part-Bred Studbook are awarded ‘Main Elite Stallion Class’ or ‘Main Elite Mare Class’ status. Stallions/mares that are not eligible for the main section can achieve classification in the Supplementary Elite/Supplementary section of the Irish Cob and Irish Cob Part-Bred studbook.
The spring inspection for 2025 will take place at:
- Coilog Equestrian Centre, Co. Kildare on Wednesday 9th April
Please note that animals MUST have a passport in order to present for inspection.
Irish Cob animals must be a minimum of 3 years of age to be presented for inspection. Entries close 5 working days in advance of the inspection date. A minimum entry of 15 animals are required for each event to run
Horse Sport Ireland Irish Cob Stallion, Mare and Gelding Inspections are supported by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine Equine Technical Support fund.
Full T&C’s and application is available HERE
