Intro
Also called the Latviiskaya, the Latvian comes from Latvia and is a robust all around utility horse that was developed in the beginning of the 20th century.
Origins
Traditionally, horse breeding in Latvia was to develop three specific types of animals, a draft type, a heavier saddle and a light riding horse. This task began early in the 20th century and by WWI there were few horses in the country. In 1921 a census was taken to determine how many breeding animals were available and the Breeders’ Congress decided to breed heavy draft and strong warmbloods. A state stud was established and they imported Oldenburg, Hanoverian and Holsteiner animals to breed with local and Oldenburg mares.
In 1925 the Svētciems State Stud Farm was established to focus on sport type animals. Using military mares (a blend of Thoroughbred, Arabian and Trakehner), along with some Hanovarian and Meklenburg from Germany.
By the time WWII hit, Latvia had developed around 46,000 animals and despite the hardships experienced in the country during the war, they continued to breed. By mid 20th century there were more Latvian bred animals in the country than imports.
Post War Era
Mid 20th century the government declared all horses bred in Latvia be called Latvian Riding Horses. However, in the 1960s Moscow reduced state breeding, but local breeders continued about their work. By the mid 1970s breeding began to attract attention again and several stud were renovated for use. Numbers continued to decline through the 20th century, but a few enthusiasts managed to keep bloodlines alive. In 1976, the name was updated to simply Latvian Horse.
While it is not completely clear, it seems this type is considered the lighter riding type horse which is separate in the studbook from a heavier warmblood. The Latvian version of the Ardennes breed was developed independently using European draft breeds.
Features
Average height 15.1 – 16 hands
Physique
Chest is broad
Back is long and flat
Legs are well set with good joints
Traditional Colors
Solid colors
Temperament
Enthusiastic and intelligent
Use
Riding horse
Harness
Sport horse
Show horse
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