Intro
Also called the Ardahan, the Malakin is the only heavy breed of horse native to Turkey.
Origins
This breed goes back almost 150 years and was brought to the eastern parts of Turkey by immigrant Turks from the Caucasus. The animals were a cross between Ardennes, Percheron, Shire, Clydesdale and Orlov with native Russian horses. When they reached eastern Turkey, the resulting crosses were then crossed with the Anadolu Native (and later more Ardennes to improve stock).
Only found in the Ardahan, Artvin and Kars Provinces, near the border with Georgia and Armenia. They are listed in the DAD-IS as vulnearable and their most recent population data is from 1988 when there were between 100-1000 left.
Features
Average height 13.3 – 14 hands
Physique
Head is elegant
Neck is short and muscular
Chest is deep and wide
Back is broad
Hindquarters are wide
Legs are thick and strong
Hooves are black and strong
Traditional Colors
black | grey | dun | chestnut | brown
Temperament
Friendly and willing
Use
Farm animal
Draft work
Transportation
Helpful Links
The domestic livestock resources of Turkey
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