The Kustanair horse
An ancient breed of oriental origin, living in herds in Kazakhstan and improved by crossbreeding with the Thoroughbred, the Don, and the Orlov. Today, according to official sources, there are around 40,000 horses, with only 5% purebred Kustanair (these figures date from the 1980s, so it’s possible that the numbers may have changed). The creation of the breed was complicated at first, but with the development of breeding and selection expertise on the collective farms where the horse was born, combined with the contribution of English Thoroughbreds, the Kustanair horse breed was born. There are two sub-breeds of this horse: a heavier breed, suitable for work in the fields, and a lighter breed, intended for riding.
Caractère et aptitudes du cheval
This calm horse is quiet and resistant, very vigorous, and energetic. Comfortable gaits.
Utilisations du cheval
A saddle horse used in the army, suitable for light draught and pack work, it is known for its great sturdiness and above all its great endurance, capable of covering great distances. While the number of Kustanair horses may seem relatively large, they are very small locally. Indeed, the Kustanair horse is the least developed breed locally in Kazakhstan.
Morphologie du cheval
Small head. Straight profile. Broad forehead. Small eyes. Medio line type body. Long, slender neck. Fairly high withers. Shoulder long, sloping. Deep chest. Straight back. Sloping croup. Long, muscular limbs. Good bone structure. Dry joints. Well-shaped hoof. Coat: chestnut, bay, dark bay, black, gray. Height: 1.50 m to 1.60 m.
