Draw It Out® 16oz High Potency Gel
Sensation-free post-work care that keeps recovery calm—perfect between ranch/ cow horse goes and long haul days.
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Unraveling the Mysteries: Exploring the Rich History and Characteristics of the Grullo Horse
Grullo Horses: Characteristics, Genetics, History & Care
By Jon Conklin • Updated • 6–8 min read
Smoky body, black points, a sharp dorsal stripe, and tiger bars on the legs—grullos look like they were carved from weathered steel. Here’s what creates the color, where the type shines, and how to keep them willing through long weeks.
What Is “Grullo/Grulla”?
A grullo (also spelled grulla) is a dun-diluted black horse: slate or mouse-gray body with black points and primitive markings. Unlike true gray horses, grullos do not progressively lighten with age.
“Dun on black: smoke over steel.”
Genetics & Primitive Markings
- Base: Black.
- Dilution: One copy of the dun gene (D) lightens the body, preserves black points, and adds markings.
- Primitive marks: Dorsal stripe, leg barring (“tiger stripes”), shoulder shadow, cobwebbing on forehead, ear tips, frosting on mane/tail.
History & Working Uses
The dun pattern is ancient and practical—camouflage on open country. Today, grullos show up in ranch horse classes, reined cow horse, roping, and all-around western events where mind, feet, and durability matter.
Care & Grooming for the Look
Keep the contrast
Rinse sweat to prevent salt haze on the smoky body. Clean white marks and highlight the black points for sharp outlines.
Skin first, shine follows
Skip harsh detergents that strip oils. Consistent curry + soft brush builds a healthy, even sheen across the slate coat.
Legs show everything. Support the skin barrier on cannons and pasterns, keep them dry, and tackle crud early so work stays comfortable.
Show-Ring & Photo-Day Tips
- Deep-clean the night before; morning = targeted touch-ups (elbows, hocks, tailhead).
- Short, specific warm-ups to avoid sweat marks before your class or shoot.
- Let primitive markings pop: crisp dorsal stripe and leg barring read great on camera.
Products We Trust (Show-Safe)
MasterMudd™
Targeted support for high-motion areas after hard stops, turns, and fence work—use as labeled.
Explore MasterMudd™ →SilverHoof EQ Therapy®
Barrier-supporting skin care that stays put on cannons and pasterns—keeps legs clean-looking and comfortable.
Learn about SilverHoof →Note: Avoid applying topical products near eyes; follow label directions.
Steel look. Soft feel.
Want a grullo-specific routine for ranch/RC classes? Reach out—we’ll keep it fast, simple, and show-safe.
Grullo FAQ
Is grullo the same as gray?
No. Grullo is dun on a black base and doesn’t lighten with age; gray horses progressively lighten over the years.
What markings prove a true grullo?
Clear dorsal stripe, leg barring, and often shoulder shadow or ear tips—plus black mane, tail, and lower legs.
Do grullos sun-fade?
They can bronze with heavy sun and sweat. Rinse sweat promptly and keep a steady grooming routine to protect the smoky tone.
Are Draw It Out® products show-safe?
Our flagship gel is sensation-free and trusted by competitive riders. Always check current rules for your discipline and venue.
Further Reading
Sep 08, 2025
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After the last run, the real work begins. This guide covers cooling, when to use liniment, and how to wrap clean for legs that stay tight...
Sep 06, 2025
Haul-Day Recovery for Horses: Trailer Legs, Cooling & Compression
Travel days stress legs in quiet ways. This step-by-step guide shows how to cool, support, and wrap wisely after hauling—so your horse st...
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