The theory is that these horses evolved in the wet, muddy, and bushy places in the north. Their shaggy fur gave them protection from snow and ice in the winter and protection from brambles and thorns in the summer.  This horse was selectively bred for over half a century from a vision to create the perfect horse to pull the Gypsy caravan. The breeders focused on making sure the horse was gentle, easy to train, and able to tolerate hard work. The Gypsy Vanner is a crossbreed of the Clydesdales, Shires, and native British ponies, meaning it combines the physical and mental characteristics of all of them.