The Orloff Trotter horse
The Orloff or Orlov Trotter was named in memory of Count Orloff (or Orlov) of Tchesma, who produced it from 1777 onwards at his Khrénovoï stud on the Don River. This breed is the result of the methodical mating of local mares and breeding stock of different origins, and of fast trotting training. Count Orloff used the white Arabian stallion Smetanka, which he crossed with a large, strong-boned Danish mare. The offspring, named Polkan, lacked the desired beauty of movement and ease, and was given to a Dutch mare esteemed for the elegance of her actions. From this mating was born, in 1784, the famous grey stallion Bars I, who possessed all the qualities sought by the Count.
He and his sons were crossed with native, Arab, Dutch, Danish and English mares. Thoroughbred and Arabian blood was introduced on several occasions. The Stud Book was instituted in 1865. The Orloff Trotter helped improve breeds such as the Don. When crossed with the faster American Trotter, it gave rise to the Russian Trotter or Trotter Métis.
Caractère et aptitudes du cheval
Orloff Trotters have an excellent, docile nature. Resistant and enduring, this horse is powerful, vigorous, and energetic. Its gaits are remarkably elegant.
Utilisations du cheval
This cavalry horse, saddle horse and then competition trotter still has its place, flanked by two gallopers, in the traditional Russian carriage, the troika.
Morphologie du cheval
Small, fine head. Broad forehead. Straight or slightly concave profile. Flared nostrils. Small ears. Large eyes. Elongated, medium-long body. Long, strong neck. Good withers. Shoulder long, sloping. Broad fore chest. Deep chest. Straight, long back. Strong loins. Powerful hindquarters. Croup wide, rounded, a little low. Long, particularly strong limbs. Light bone structure. Joints dry, broad. Long muzzle. Well-shaped foot. Tail often set high. Coat: frequently gray, dapple gray, iron gray or black. Size: 1.55 m to 1.73 m.
