Short, dense coat that varies with season; can be solid or patterned.
Brumbies have a hardy, weather-resistant coat that thickens in winter and sheds in summer. They come in a wide range of colours and patterns, including bay, brown, chestnut, black, grey, roan, pinto, and occasionally palomino or buckskin.24
Brumbies are generally calm, intelligent, and social. They bond closely with their human family and are known for their even temper and loyalty. They can be wary of new situations at first, but with patient handling they become trusting and affectionate. They are not naturally aggressive, but they have a strong herd instinct and are protective of their group.56
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Brumbies are active and need plenty of space to roam and graze. They do well with daily turnout in a good-sized paddock and benefit from regular exercise if ridden or driven. They are not suited to being stabled all day. They enjoy mental stimulation and social interaction with other horses.62
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Brumbies are low-maintenance and do not need rugs or stables. They need regular hoof trimming, dental checks, and deworming. Grooming helps build trust and keeps the coat healthy. They should be checked daily for injuries or signs of illness, especially after being in the wild.62
Home where they are happiest
Brumbies need a well-fenced, grassy paddock with fresh water, shade trees, and shelter from extreme weather. They are hardy and can live outside year-round in most Australian climates. A companion horse is essential, as they are herd animals and can become depressed alone. They are not suitable for small backyards.62
Food basics what goes in the bowl
Brumbies thrive on good-quality pasture grass and hay. They can process large amounts of poor-quality feed, but cannot handle rich, high-protein hard feeds without careful introduction. Supplementary lucerne hay may be needed in winter. Always provide fresh, clean water, and introduce any new feed gradually.56
Company who they like around
Brumbies are highly social and must live with at least one other horse. They form strong bonds and can become anxious or depressed if kept alone. They communicate through body language, sounds, and facial expressions. They do well in a herd or with a companion animal.62
The story where it all began
Brumbies are feral horses in Australia, descended from domestic horses that escaped or were released, starting with the First Fleet in 1788. They have lived wild for generations, adapting to harsh conditions. They are known for their hardiness, intelligence, and sure-footedness. They are not a distinct species but a type of feral horse, and they are sometimes called 'brumbies' after a historical figure, Sergeant James Brumby. They are found across Australia, especially in the Australian Alps and Northern Territory.17
Recognised by the official bits
Australian Brumby Alliance
Recognised as a distinct type of feral horse in Australia, with various registries and advocacy groups.5
The care rhythm Furry Diary remembers it for you
A typical home-care rhythm for a Brumby. It is our own starting plan, not a vet's advice, and you can change every line in the app.
Fresh food and waterHay or grazing most of the day, fresh water alwaysevery day
Pick out hoovesPick out the hooves every dayevery day
GroomingA quick groom also lets you spot cuts and swellingsevery day
TurnoutDaily time out with company, horses are herd animalsevery day
Muck outevery day
Farrier visitTrim or shoes about every 6 to 8 weeks, as your farrier advisesevery 6 weeks
Teeth brushingDental check by a vet or equine dentistevery year
Flea, tick and worm protectionWorming as your vet recommends, often after a faecal egg countas your vet recommends
VaccinationsAs your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
A baked treat recipe from Rutgers Equine Science Center, using safe ingredients like pumpkin and oats. Suitable for horses, not for ponies or donkeys due to sugar content.
You need
4 cups whole oats (or crushed/rolled barley if your horse is sugar-sensitive)
1 can pumpkin (plain, not pie filling)
2 cups water
2 tsp baking powder
1 ¾ cups flour
2 tsp cinnamon
How
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the pumpkin and water together.
Add the dry ingredients (oats, flour, baking powder, cinnamon) to the pumpkin mixture and stir until combined.
Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a greased cookie sheet.
Optional: add a sugar-free peppermint topping to some treats if your horse can have them.
Bake for 20 minutes.
Allow to cool completely before feeding.
How much: 1-2 treats per day, depending on your horse's size and dietary needs. Always introduce new treats gradually.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise.
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Brumby, and what should it eat?
Your Brumby thrives on good-quality pasture grass and hay, with fresh water always available. Supplementary lucerne hay may be needed in winter. Furry Diary's starting plan is to provide fresh food and water daily, and always introduce any new feed gradually.56Furry Diary plan
Which foods and plants are dangerous for a Brumby?
Avoid feeding your Brumby foods like chocolate, avocado, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, and anything with xylitol, as these are toxic to horses. For a full list, check with your vet or a good breeder, as individual sensitivities can vary.8
How much space and land does a Brumby need?
Your Brumby needs a well-fenced, grassy paddock with plenty of room to roam and graze daily. They are not suited to small backyards and need enough space for exercise and social interaction with another horse.62
What kind of shelter does a Brumby need?
A Brumby needs access to shade trees and shelter from extreme weather, but they are hardy and can live outside year-round in most Australian climates. A simple field shelter or natural windbreak works well.62
How do I look after a Brumby's hooves or feet?
Regular hoof trimming by a farrier every six weeks is essential, as per Furry Diary's starting plan. Daily hoof picking helps keep them clean and healthy.62Furry Diary plan
Does a Brumby need grooming or shearing?
Brumbies are low-maintenance and do not need rugs or shearing, as their coat is weather-resistant. Regular grooming helps build trust and keeps the coat healthy, and you should check daily for injuries or illness.62
Can a Brumby live alone?
No, Brumbies are highly social and must live with at least one other horse. They can become anxious or depressed if kept alone, so a companion is essential for their wellbeing.62
How long does a Brumby live?
A Brumby typically lives between 20 and 25 years with good care. Their lifespan can vary based on diet, environment, and veterinary attention.2
Is a Brumby good with children?
Brumbies are generally calm, intelligent, and bond closely with their human family, making them good with children when properly handled. However, they can be wary of new situations, so patient and supervised introductions are best.56
What regular vet care does a Brumby need?
Your Brumby needs annual dental checks and deworming as your vet recommends, along with daily health checks. Furry Diary's starting plan includes yearly teeth care and parasite prevention as advised by your vet.62Furry Diary plan
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Furry Diary's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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