There is no set color standard for Gypsy Cobs, although the two most common are piebald and skewbald, two variations of pinto coloring. The typical Gypsy Cob is known for an abundance of hair and "feather" (long hair starting at the cannon bone and flowing down over the hooves).

The build is powerful and compact, with a short neck and back. The Gypsy Cob is heavy boned, the typical horse measuring between 14 and 17 hands. There is no height limit in the registry. The cannon circumference can range from 8" to 12". The chest is broad with well sprung ribs, the hips are heavy, they have short backs, strong shoulders, and the withers are rounded. The hair should be straight and silky, kinky hair is a fault. Their legs should have heavy bone set on large hooves, their hind legs should not be too straight. Gypsy Cobs must also have excellent endurance, and be able to go long distances without tiring.

They are also known as Gypsy Horses or Irish Tinkers. A related type is the Drum Horse which is a Gypsy Cob crossed with any type of draft horse (most commonly Clydesdales or Shires).

Gypsy Horses are very versatile, they can be used for riding English style, Western style, as well as for driving. They are known for their sweet, loving nature and to keep this strong in their breeding, the Gypsies who originally bred them would sell horses who didn't display this nature.