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The Latvian breed has only
been established since 1952, but is believed to have descended from ancient
roots. It is likely that the Latvian was closely related to the Dole
Gudbrandsdal, the North Swedish Horse and other heavy European draft breeds,
originally dating back to the prehistoric Forest Horse of Northern Europe.
During the 17th century, the breed had German riding horse, English
Thoroughbred, and Arabian blood introduced to it, but the most influential
infusion was that from the Olden burg, Hanoverian, and Holstein. During the
early half of the 20th century, 65 Oldenburg stallions and 42 Oldenburg
mares were imported from the Netherlands which became the base for
developing the breed. There were then crosses made using Hanoverian, Norfolk
Roadster, Oldenburg part-breds, East Friesian, and Ardennes.
There are three basic types
of Latvian horse: the heavy draft horse, which is the closest to the
original type, and a horse of great strength and pulling power. Secondly,
the Latvian harness horse, which is particularly suited to light draft work,
also makes a good riding horse. Lastly, there is the most modern type - the
Latvian riding horse, which has developed through the introduction of
English Thoroughbred blood, as well as Arabian blood. This is a much finer,
lighter type of riding horse. The riding horse type is becoming the most
popular and the old heavy draft type is now rarely seen. However, the modern
riding type is still able to perform admirably in harness, although not
having the same draft strength. The Latvian as a breed is particularly
versatile and the modern riding horse type has become extremely successful
in the competition world competing at dressage show jumping.
In appearance, the Latvian
tend to have a large, but attractive, head, with small alert ears and
expressive eyes. The neck is long and muscular and set to quite high
withers. The shoulders are sloping and the chest is deep and broad. They
have a straight back with muscular legs and good, hard joints.
Conformational problems that may be seen are cow hocks and a predisposition
to ringbone. In general, they have good muscular structure, and good stamina
and endurance. Typically they are bay in color, although occasionally black
or chestnut, and stand between 15.3 and 16.3 hh.
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