Intro
The Novoaltaiskaya, Charysh Altai or New Altai is a relatively new breed, developed in the Altai region of Russia. Created by zootechnicians, their breeding is maintained in a scientific manner, specifically for meat production.
Origins
Closely related to the Russian Draft, these animals are bred for increased meat production, without loosing their inherent hardiness. Breeding began early in the 20th century, but experienced difficulty maintaining the ruggedness necessary to raise consistently healthy animals.
In 1978, careful selection began to establish a small herd of animals that met the requirements. Their foundation began with 845 draft-cross mares and 140 draft stallions from several countries. They found the most success with Lithuanian Drafts. Their offspring was crossed with trotters, Don and Budyonny to a small degree to lighten their skeleton and improve hoof quality. The most significant influence came from Kuznetsk animals.
They became an official breed at the turn of the 21st century. While it is raised in the same region and may share bloodlines, it is listed in the DAD-IS as a separate breed from Chara horses (however that could be lost in translation and it’s possible they are the same or perhaps different strains).
Since 2006, the New Altai as been successfully crossed with the Jabe of Kazakhstan, also bred for meat. The goal was to increase milk and meat production, the resulting Jabe-New Altai hybrids were successful in their goal and may be the birth of another breed page soon.
Features
Average height 14.8-15.5 hands
Massive frame
Physique
Imposing head
Strong back
Croup is muscular
Chest is deep and broad
Legs are solid
Hooves can be fragile
Traditional Colors
All colors
Temperament
Sober and willing
Use
Meat production
Milk
Riding
Agriculture