Kazakh Horse
Other namesKazakh
Country of originKazakhstan
Traits
Distinguishing featuresEasy keeper, great endurance and stamina

The Kazakh Horse (Kazakh: Qazaq) is a horse breed of the Kazakh people, who live mainly in Kazakhstan, but also in parts of China, Mongolia, Russia and Uzbekistan. It is used mainly as a riding horse, and is known for its hardiness and stamina.[1]

Characteristics

The Kazakh horse averages 144 centimetres (14.0+1⁄2 hands; 56+1⁄2 in) for stallions and mares average 142 centimetres (14.0 hands; 56 in). They weigh between 400 and 500 kilograms (880 and 1,100 lb). The breed is criticized for a short stride and a jolting trot. However, they are also very hardy and able to cover long distances.[1]

The breed consists of two subtypes, the Adaev and the Dzhab or Jabe. The Dzhabe developed in the southern districts of Aktubinsk. They have a heavy head, thick, short neck, and deep chest. They have a straight back, strong legs and a well-muscled croup. They are usually bay, dark bay, chestnut or gray. The Adaevs are more refined with lighter heads, longer necks, and well-defined withers. Due to the primitive conditions in which they live, this strain is more susceptible to developing narrow chests and light bone structure.[1]

History

Horses in the region of Kazakhstan date to the 5th century B.C. Early influences on what today is the Kazakh horse include the Akhal-Teke, Arabian, Karabair, and Mongolian horse. Beginning in the 20th century, the breed had additional infusions of blood from the Russian Don, Orlov Trotter and the Thoroughbred.[1]

The Kazakh today resembles a more elegant version of the Mongolian horse. The breed is still bred by once-nomadic Kazakh tribesmen, although cross-breeding has somewhat diluted the traditional bloodlines.[2]

Uses

Today, the Kazakh horses are seen mostly in western Kazakhstan, where there are over 300,000.[1] The main use of the Kazakh is for riding,[3] although they are also bred for horsemeat.[1]

References

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Kazakh horse.
  1. 1 2 3 4 5 6 Staff. "Kazakh". Breeds of Livestock. Oklahoma State University. Retrieved 15 November 2014.
  2. ↑ "The Sports of Presidents and the 'Sport of Kings'. Hellenic Resources Network. Referenced January 16, 2008.
  3. ↑ Bongianni, Maurizio (1988). Simon & Schuster's Guide to Horses and Ponies. Simon & Schuster, Inc. p. 164. ISBN 0-671-66068-3.
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