Altai (horse)

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The Altai is a horse breed developed in the Altai Mountains of Central Asia, with hardiness that was significantly influenced by the harsh climate in which they were developed and the need for survival on only year-round pasture grazing. They were bred for the characteristics most needed by the mountain tribesmen and nomads, including strong cardiovascular, respiritory, muscular, and skeletal systems. They are also surefooted over steep mountain trails.

[edit] Characteristics

The Altai has a head with a slightly dished profile, set on a relatively short neck. They have a strong back, a well-developed croup, and short cannons. They stand an average of 13.2 - 13.3 hands high, and their coat colors are chestnut, bay, black, gray, and sometimes leopard Appaloosa.

Crossing Altais with other breeds usually results in larger, stronger horses that still retain the healthiness and easy management of the Altai. In the past, the Altai has been crossed with Lithuanian, Russian, and Soviet Heavy Draft horses to produce a new breed for meat production[1].

[edit] References

  1. ^ Altai. Oklahoma State University. Retrieved on December 20, 2007.

[edit] References

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