Also called Kalmykskaya & Kalmyk, the Astrakhan is a member of the Mongolian equine group, they are bred in the territory along the Volga & Ural rivers. Sadly, this breed is in danger of becoming extinct. They look similar to the Kirgiz horse, but tend to be coarser with longer legs. Read more →
Also called Iranian Arabian and Assi, the Asil is named for the region where it is bred in Khuzestan. Bloodlines of the Asil (or purebred Arabian) horse are traditionally bred and kept within local tribes or families. Read more →
The Arenberg-Nordkirchener is dangerously close to becoming extinct and are listed as critically endangered, with their population numbers in the teens. Read more →
The Ardennes type draft horse is one of the basic foundations of all heavy draft breeds that exist today and they are a true cold-blooded breed. Read more →
Today most breeds owe some of their genetics to the Arabian horse. The beautiful and mighty Arabian is among the fountainheads of the World’s horse breeds. Displaying one of the most well-recognized profiles in the horse world, the Arabian’s physical loveliness is complimented by a hardy spirit and adaptable nature. Read more →
The Anglo-Luso comes from Portugal and began with the crossing of local Lusitano mares with English Thoroughbred stallions. Although many Portuguese people objected to the cross-breeding, considering it a pollution to their purebred animals. Read more →
The Andalusian is up there with the Arabian when it comes to purity and length of bloodline. Easily a grandfather of modern horse breeds, Andalusian blood influences a huge variety of breeds known today. Read more →
This is the smallest of the donkey breeds and they are known for their incredible strength and willing attitude.
Origins
The American Miniature Mediterranean Donkeys originated in southern Europe on the small islands of Sardinia and Sicily. In the 18th century they were primarily used indoors for grinding grain and as pack animals for mountain shepherds. The breed was introduced to the US in 1929 when the first imports were received by Robert Green on his stud farm in New Jersey.
“Miniature Donkeys possess the affectionate nature of a Newfoundland, the resignation of a cow, the durability of a mule, the courage of a tiger, and the intellectual capability only slightly inferior to man’s.” – Robert Green
Today these tiny animals are almost extinct in their native lands, luckily they have become popular pets in the states, where their numbers continue to grow.