Intro
The Tuva or Tuvinskaya comes from Tuva which is a large republic located in Siberia. The climate in Tuva varies considerably, but horse breeding is practiced in all of it’s districts and the breed is highly adaptable.
Origins
Horses have been bred in Tuva since ancient times, really ancient, as in 6th century BC. The animals are a small, sturdy saddle type, used for hunting, milk and meat. Similar to Mongolian animals and their use. Technically classified as part of the Siberian pony family, they are probably closer to Mongolian ponies genetically. Notable because they have lived relatively isolated from other breeds, so pockets of purer bloodlines still likely exist.
At the end of the 19th century, minerals were found in the area, so large draft and saddle breeds were imported for the business of extraction. Large private stud farms were established crossing local animals with larger types in the hopes of keeping local hardiness but producing larger animals for mining. From among these crosses came the Upper Yenisei and Tuva Carriage horses became a separate type by the mid 20th century. Not long after mechanization made them obsolete, need declining enough for the stud farms to close.
Features
Average height 12.5 – 13.5 hands
Thick mane and tail hair
Physique
Head is large with a straight or slightly convex profile
Ears are large
Body is long
Legs are slender and strong
Hooves are solid
Traditional Colors
All colors
Use
Draft
Harness
Riding horse
Transportation
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