Intro
The West Black Sea Rahvan Horse (or Rahvan for short) comes from Turkey and has been bred there for at least 800 years. Rahvan is the Turkish word used to describe their quick, lateral walking gait.
Origins
The Rahvan breed has been bred specifically to carry this gait at high speeds for racing and is fast at all gaits. Their original bloodlines are thought to come from a cross between the Anadolu and the Canik blood (both gaited breeds).
Like many gaited animals, the Rahvan is able to cover vast distances without expending the energy that a regularly gaited horse does. They also carry their head and tail high when traveling at this gait, reminiscent of Icelandic animals.
Features
Average height 13.7 hands
Physique
Head is handsome
Neck is thick and muscular
Back is short
Chest is wide and deep
Legs are strong
Hooves are incredibly tough
Traditional Colors
All common colors
Use
Racing
Helpful Links
The domestic livestock resources of Turkey