Portugal is home to the Lusitano which an ancient horse breed that are intelligent, sensible and have great balance. It is believed to one of the earliest horses to be mounted by man. It shared its registration with the Spanish horse, the Andalusian until the 1960s. Both are often also called Iberian horses as they originate in the Iberian peninsula.

Lusitanos were primarily developed for use in war, dressage and bull fighting.  Portuguese unlike the Spanish tend to bull fight from horse back (and also do not kill the bull). This has kept the historic characteristics of the Lusitano intact which include great bravery, with a tendency to confront danger instead of running away, calmness and with great spirit.  Another important characteristic is the subvonvex profile - a trait genetically tied to "La Gineta" , the ancient equestrian art of mounted single combat.

Lusitanos make excellent riding horses due to their levelheaded temperament and tendancy to bond with humans. The Lusitano are also one of the most comfortable horses to ride. They are also highly proficient at the high levels of dressage including high movements of piaffe, passage, pirouettes, half pass and flying lead charges.

Many Lusitanos turn white with age but come in a striking variety of solid colors and usually stand 15 - 16 hands high. They are compact, with powerful hindquarters, some with high-stepping action, and a thick mane and tail. They have a Roman nose with a wide forehead. They also have a sloping croup and low-set tail, as well as short backs. They have a low set cresty neck, a broad chest, well-sprung ribs. They are extremely powerful and strong, due to their muscular hindquarters and strong, long legs.