Intro
Also called the Turk, Turkmene, Turkmen and Turkmenian, the ancient Turkoman breed is thought to be extinct in its pure form. Horses bred in Turkmenistan are still called by the same name, however the purest descendants of this ancient breed are the Barb, Akhal-Teke and Iomud.
Origins
Of the three, Akhal-Teke breeding has been kept closest to actual Turkoman blood. However, sources say that relatively pure Turkoman horses do still exist in small pockets in Iran. Although, the Akhal-Teke in Pakistan comes from the Turkoman, they developed as lighter animals used by archers on the battlefield. The Turkoman breed was a more robust animal built for carrying heavily armed soldiers into battle – this build remains in the breed of today.
Features
Average height 15 – 16 hands
Physique
Head is well proportioned with a straight profile
Neck is long and lean
Back is long and straight
Chest is deep
Shoulder is long, muscular and sloping
Legs are long and slender but very strong with broad joints
Hooves are small and strong
Traditional Colors
Temperament
Spirited and Intelligent
Bold and honest
Use
Riding horse
Racing