Mike Clinton
Introduction to the American Bashkir Curly breed
The American Bashkir Curly is a rare breed of horse known for its distinctive curly coat and gentle disposition. The breed originated in the western United States, and is thought to have descended from Spanish Mustangs and Russian Bashkir horses. The breed is unique in that many individuals have a hypoallergenic coat, making them an excellent choice for people with allergies or sensitivities to traditional horse hair. The Bashkir Curly is a versatile breed, used for riding, driving, and even therapy work.
Origins and history of the Bashkir Curly
The origins of the Bashkir Curly are somewhat mysterious, but it is thought that the breed’s curly coat may have been a natural adaptation to the harsh climates of the western United States. The breed was first documented in the early 20th century, when ranchers in Nevada and California began selectively breeding curly-coated horses. In the 1930s, a breeder named John Sharp recognized the breed’s potential and formed the American Bashkir Curly Horse Registry. Despite their unique appearance and gentle nature, the breed remained relatively unknown until the 1970s, when they began to gain popularity in the United States and Canada.
Characteristics and appearance of the breed
The most distinctive characteristic of the Bashkir Curly is its curly coat, which can range from tight curls to loose waves. Some individuals even have a "marcel wave" pattern, which appears as distinct zig-zags. The coat can be any color, and is often thick and luxurious. The breed is of medium build, generally standing between 14 to 16 hands high, with a muscular build and strong legs. The breed’s ears are small and expressive, and the eyes are large and kind.
Temperament and personality of the Bashkir Curly
The Bashkir Curly is known for its gentle and willing temperament. They are intelligent and quick to learn, making them an excellent choice for a variety of disciplines. They are also highly adaptable and tend to be easy keepers, requiring relatively little feed or maintenance. Many individuals have a strong bond with their owners and enjoy being around people.
Uses and disciplines the breed excels in
The Bashkir Curly is a versatile breed, excelling in a variety of disciplines. They are commonly used for trail riding and pleasure riding, but are also skilled in driving, jumping, and even dressage. Because of their gentle nature and hypoallergenic coat, they are also popular in therapeutic riding programs. They are often used as pack horses and have even been used in search and rescue operations.
Health and maintenance of the Bashkir Curly
The Bashkir Curly is a generally healthy breed with few known health issues. The breed’s curly coat can require special maintenance, as it may become matted if not brushed regularly. Like all horses, they require regular hoof care and dental checkups. The breed is typically easy to keep, requiring little feed and maintenance.
Training and handling tips for the breed
The Bashkir Curly is a quick learner and responds well to positive reinforcement training methods. They are generally sensitive to their handler’s cues, so it is important to be consistent and clear when working with them. Because of their gentle nature, they may not respond well to harsh handling or excessive force.
Popularity and current status of the breed
The Bashkir Curly is still considered a rare breed, with only a few thousand individuals registered worldwide. However, their popularity has been steadily increasing, particularly in the western United States. The breed is still relatively unknown outside of the horse world, but is gaining recognition for its unique qualities and versatility.
Breed clubs and organizations for the Bashkir Curly
The American Bashkir Curly Horse Association is the primary registry for the breed, and there are also several regional clubs and organizations throughout the United States and Canada. These organizations work to promote the breed and educate the public about its unique qualities.
Conclusion: Why the Bashkir Curly is worth considering
The Bashkir Curly is a unique and versatile breed with a gentle disposition and hypoallergenic coat. Whether you are looking for a trail riding companion, a therapy horse, or a skilled driving horse, the Bashkir Curly is worth considering. With their intelligence and adaptability, they are sure to become a beloved member of your family.