Don horse

Name: Don Horse
Origin: Russia
Height: 155 - 165 cm
Color: Brownish, russet
Category: Warmbloods

History of the Don Horse breed

The horse takes its name from the area where the Don River flows through. There are harsh climatic conditions here, making the Don Horse a very hardy breed, able to survive where other breeds cannot. Their ancestors are probably Mongolian, Turkmen, Karabakh, Akhalteke and Orlov horses. The Don horse was used extensively in warfare.In the early 20th century, these horses were crossed with Arabian and English Thoroughbreds, which refined the Don horse and gave it a lighter frame. However, to this day the breed has major exterior defects that breeders are trying to eliminate.

Physique of the Don Horse

The head is of the eastern type, the neck is muscular. The shoulder blades are often very upright. The chest is deep, the back long and straight. The rump is weak, the tail low set. The limbs tend to be long with a steep rump and hard hooves. The coat is always brown or fawn, and they grow to 155-165 cm at the withers.

Use of the Don Horse breed

The Don horse has long been used in the military, but they are also good riding and draft horses. They are also incredibly good endurance horses.

The nature of the Don Horse breed

They are calm, willing and hardworking horses. They are energetic, but well mannered and teachable. They are also very strong, sturdy and hardy.