Origins
Also called the Darfur Pony, Gharkawi and Kordofani Western Sudan Pony comes from southern Darfur and southwestern Kordofan in Sudan.
Origins
Early in the 20th century a government program was established to improve horses found in the country. Thoroughbred and Arabian stallions were imported and crossed with local mares (mostly of Barb or Dongala type). While this improved poorly bred local stock, it also diluted any native bloodlines that may exist. Sacrificing hardiness and type for size and speed.
Traditionally, the Sudanese also prefer stallions, generally purchasing horses from neighboring breeders rather than manage broodmares. Both of the factors meant that by the late 20th century, most horses in the country had some outside influence flowing through their veins. Leaving the Dongala as perhaps the purest breed and closest to the original type found in the country today.
Features
Average height 13.8 hands
Physique
Characteristics
More of a small horse in conformation
Head has a convex profile
Shoulders are strong
Legs are thin and tend to be poorly conformed
Traditional Colors
Generally Grey, but can be found in chestnut, bay and brown
Temperament
Intelligent and sociable
Use
Riding
Transport
Pack animal