breeds

Buying an Andalusian (PRE): ANCCE Studbook, Difference from Lusitano, Prices

A PRE is more than an Andalusian: the ANCCE studbook, the split from the Lusitano, and what to look for when buying.

Equidara editorial team · 30 September 2026 · 3 min read

Andalusian (PRE) horse — AI-generated image

If you're looking to buy an Andalusian, the first thing to clarify is whether you want a horse with Pura Raza Española (PRE) papers. The difference lies in the studbook: the ANCCE maintains the official studbook for PREs. The Lusitano is a separate Portuguese breed. There is no fixed price range; it depends on bloodlines, training, and health status. This guide explains the key terms and offers buying tips.

What do PRE and ANCCE mean?

The term Andalusian is used colloquially for Spanish horses. Only horses with an unbroken pedigree and entry in the studbook may be called PRE. The ANCCE, the Royal National Association of Breeders of Pure Spanish Horses, is the worldwide umbrella organization and the only association officially recognized by the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture to manage the studbook. Until 2006, the Spanish military administration ran the studbook; after that, the ANCCE took over. In Germany, the ZfdP keeps a branch studbook and follows the principles of the original breeding organization.

Difference between PRE and Lusitano

The Lusitano is the Portuguese sister breed. Until 1967, both were kept in a single studbook under the name Andalusian. Since the split, Pura Raza Española in Spain and Puro Sangue Lusitano in Portugal have been bred separately. Both breeds share similar Iberian roots but have their own studbooks, breeding goals, and breed associations. If you're interested in a PRE, don't automatically consider a Lusitano just because the two look alike.

Breed characteristics and suitability

PREs stand about 150 to 162 cm at the withers. All colors except pinto are allowed – grays, blacks, bays, and buckskins are common, chestnuts rare, with few white markings. The build is typically Iberian: an elegant, dry head, well-arched neck, sloping shoulder, prominent withers, and a slightly sloping croup. The gaits are rhythmic, ground-covering, and elastic with pronounced knee action. The breed is particularly suited to haute école and classical riding, but is also valued as a versatile leisure horse.

Studbook registration in Germany

If you want to breed yourself, you should know: the studbook is closed, and no other breeds may be crossed in. In Germany, stallions must score at least 7,0 overall at a collective licensing event (Körung), with no selection trait below 5,0. A veterinary examination for breeding soundness and health, as well as a DNA profile to confirm parentage, are also required. Mares must be identified and meet certain requirements depending on the studbook class. Ask the breed association for current regulations.

Buying: papers, health, transport

When buying a PRE, inspect the papers carefully. A PRE has a breeding certificate and is microchipped or carries the breeder's brand. Stallions must be licensed, mares registered. Have a pre-purchase exam done by an independent vet. Discuss the scope of the exam in advance, depending on whether the horse is intended as a leisure partner or for sport. Arrange transport, export papers, and settling-in. Horses bred in Germany are used to the local climate, feed, and management, which makes the transition easier. On Equidara, you can search for PREs and Andalusians: Horses on Equidara

Care and health

PREs are considered hardy, but like all horses they need species-appropriate keeping, sufficient exercise, and needs-based feeding. When buying from Spain, switching to different feed can be stressful. Gradually transition the feed and watch the horse closely in the first few weeks. If any health issues arise, call a vet early.

Prices and costs

It is not possible to give a reliable, universal price range from publicly available sources. Prices vary widely depending on bloodlines, age, training level, health status, and location. A PRE with a license and special breeding achievements is usually more expensive than a horse without papers. In addition to the purchase price, budget for pre-purchase exam, transport, and possibly quarantine. Ask breed associations and breeders for current prices.

Common buying mistakes

Papers not checked, or checked too late
No pre-purchase exam done
Only looking at the purchase price and ignoring ongoing costs
Underestimating transport and settling-in

These pitfalls can be avoided if you allow enough time before buying and seek advice from professionals.

Common questions

What is the difference between an Andalusian and a PRE?

Andalusian is a colloquial term for Spanish horses. Only horses registered in the official ANCCE studbook with an unbroken pedigree may be called PRE (Pura Raza Española).

What does ANCCE stand for?

ANCCE stands for Real Asociación Nacional de Criadores de Caballos de Pura Raza Española, the Royal National Association of Breeders of Pure Spanish Horses. It maintains the official studbook for PREs.

How do PREs and Lusitanos differ?

Both breeds descend from Iberian horses and were kept in a single studbook until 1967. Since then, PREs (Spain) and Lusitanos (Portugal) have been bred separately and have their own studbooks.

What should I look for when buying a PRE?

Check breeding papers, microchip or brand, health, and training. Have a vet do a pre-purchase exam and arrange transport and settling-in.

Sources

Written by Equidara editorial team. Last checked: 4 October 2026.