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 The Altai horse was developed over a long period of time,
and has been significantly influenced by the harsh climate and the conditions
specific to the mountains in which they make their home. The Altai is adapted to
year-round pasture grazing, and the Altai crosses with pure breeds have a good
performance. They are larger, more massive, and stronger than the Altai while
retaining the sound health and undemanding demeanor of the Altai. Programs are
underway to develop a new meat producing breed by crossing the Altai with the
Lithuanian, Russian, and Soviet Heavy Draught. These crossings were made after
the revolution as well as under the Soviet government. Henceforth the crossbred
horses were bred "in Purity".
 This breed was reared in the Altai mountains for many
centuries and are very well adapted to its harsh environment. Horses have always
been important to the tribesmen and nomads in the mountainous region, requiring
horses with a strong heart, lungs, muscles, and tendons in addition to very
hard, tough feet. A surefooted horse is imperative, because they must often
travel over steep mountain trails cut from the rock and also cross fast-moving
streams without slipping. The Altai is a very hardy animal that is indispensable
to the people who depend on it.
Typically the Altai's head is average in length, large and
somewhat coarse, and the neck is fleshy while the back is long and slightly
dipped. Their croups are well-developed and their legs are short and properly
set. Occasionally defects crop up, including sloping pasterns and bowed hocks.
They can be chestnut, black, bay, gray, and sometimes spotted.
See how much you know - take the
Altai Quiz
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