Intro
Also called Kladruber, Kladrubsky and Starokladrubsky Kun, the Kladruby Horse is the only indigenous breed of the Czech Republic. They are descendants of old Spanish and Italian blood of the 16th and 17th centuries and share common ancestors with the Lipizzan breed.
Origins
These animals were once used as a majestic ceremonial carriage horse by the Vienna imperial court. The breeding records of the Kladruby of the 18th century were destroyed by fire in 1759, 200 years of breeding records gone. Prior to this time this breed was far more colorful, but since then the breeding has been restricted to black and white animals.
Both colors were bred separately to preserve their genetic characteristics. The black color was used mainly as carriage horses for clerical dignitaries, however in 1930 the herd was liquidated and the animals sold for meat (including one of the foundation studs). A few mares remained and using them programs have been established to regenerate the strain. White Kladruby horses are still bred at the Kladruby stud, but overall the breed is at risk.
Features
Average height 16.2 – 17 hands
Physique
Head is high with a Roman nose
Ears are small
Neck is high set and wide
Traditional Colors
Temperanent
High energy and intelligent
Use
Sport driving
Cultural and religious ceremonies
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