Altai

The Altai breed of horses have been influenced by harsh climate conditions found in the land they call home, the mountain taiga.

Altai horses have large heads that are of average lengths, fleshy necks and a long back that dips slightly in the middle.  Legs are properly set and considered short.  Some Altai have defects including bowed hocks and sloping pasterns.  Stallions have average measurements of 140cm height at withers, 170cm girth at chest, and 19cm cannon bone girth.  Mares have 137cm height at withers, 170cm chest girth and 18cm cannon bone girth.  Altai colors are black and gray, bay, chestnut and sometimes have spots.

The Altai is an undemanding breed, and can pasture graze all year round.  when Altai's are crossed with pure breeds, the resulting offspring are larger and stronger than the Altai, but have sound health like the Altai. 

The Altai Mountains were the breeding ground for Altai horses for many centuries, which is why the Altai's are adapted to harsh environments.  Nomads living in this mountainous area need horses with strong heart and muscles, and hard feet.  Horses must be sure-footed to travel over the steep mountain trails through rock and through fast moving water.  Altai horses are hardy animals indispensable to the people who depend on the breed.