Intro
Also called the Hucul, Huculska, Hutsul, Huzul, Gutsul, Guculs and Guzuls, the Carpathian pony is a traditional Carpathian breed which is often referred to as the ancient one and comes from a region of eastern Carpathians that is now Romania.
Origins
These animals are named for a small tribe called the Hutsuls, although the horse breed is older than the people. In 1856 the first stud farm was established in Romania and animals were carefully bred to preserve the pure bloodlines. Then in 1922, 33 animals were sent to Czechoslovakia to establish a herd there as well.
Much later in the early 1970’s the breeders founded an organization the Hucul Club to prevent a looming extinction and declining numbers. In 1982 a studbook was finally established with 50 pureblood animals. By 1994 the Hucul International Federation had been formed, however by 2003 their numbers had not improved significantly. According to the DAD-IS they are endangered and as of 2019 there were only 380 left.
Features
Average height 13.4 – 14.1 hands
Heavily built
Possess great endurance and hardiness
Physique
Head is short
Neck is short
Chest is broad
Body is compact and “boxy”
Legs are short
Feet are sound
Coat is thick and coarse
Traditional Colors
Usually black or chestnut, sometimes with the dun factor.
Temperament
Calm with a good disposition
Use
Hacking and pulling timber
Riding
Meat production