In the early 1900’s a decision was made by the Spanish Military to breed Arabians for their own use. They also decided to make changes in their breeding to create a horse to meet their specific needs; horses with heavier bone, more endurance, strong loins and a more docile disposition. To acquire these particular characteristics, they sent representatives to Poland, England, Russia and the deserts of Egypt, Turkey and Arabia with the purpose of purchasing breeding stock. One stallion acquired from Poland, named Ursus, was so relatively expensive that purchasing him was said to have bankrupted the Treasury and the entire Spanish Cabinet offered to resign.

Today, the Military of Spain still owns the majority of these especially bred horses. After having selected the stallions they will use for the year's breeding, the Military allows private breeders to lease the remaining stallions. The Spaniards are exacting as to what horses they consider worth breeding. They keep only the best and sell or destroy the rest. Because of such severe culling, the Spanish Arabian has been closely bred thus retaining the sought –after traits; the results are a small, but immensely strong gene pool.

The Spanish Arabian of today can best be described as Elegant. Characteristics common to most are size and smoothness of body and loin. They are stretchy which gives them a special grace to their motion. Their disposition is very quiet and loving. Color-wise, 80% are grey and other colors are less common.