There are many different breeds of horses, but the Albanian horse is a breed that is not often heard of.
Though they are not as common as some other breeds, these horses are worth learning about.
Here is everything you need to know about the Albanian horse breed.
Albanian Horse Breed Info
Here are some of the key things you need to know about the Albanian horse:
| Height (size) | Mountain type: 12.2 – 12.3 hands
Myzeqea type: 13 – 14.1 hands |
| Colors | Black, chestnut, grey, bay |
| Country of Origin | Albania |
| Common Uses | Agricultural work, packing, light draft work, transportation, harness – they are used for riding only occasionally. |
Albanian Horse Facts & Information (Breed Profile)
The Albanian horse is the only native horse breed in Albania, and it is very closely related to the Balkan horse group.
Ancient breed and ancestors of the Albanian horse are the Illyrian horse breeds that were located in the northwest part of the Balkan peninsula.
Around 1500 B.C. the Albanian horse is said to have migrated from the Balkan peninsula.
In the year 1386, when the Turks gained a significant grip and influence over that region, a significant number of Arab cross horses was introduced.
It is also likely that Albanian horses have a mix of Tarpan, Turkmenian, and Mongolian genetics as well, and were undoubtedly mixed with Arabian horses during the Ottoman period.
There are two fundamental types of the Albanian horse: Mountain and Myzeqea, and the two have been developed for different purposes.
While the Myzequea is remarkably sturdy and strong for its size, it has an easy ambling gait.
Because of this, they are well suited for use as carriage horses, mounts for long distance travel, and light agricultural labor.
The Mountain type is smaller, lighter, more athletic, and more lively.
They also tend to be more resilient to disease and have a longer lifespan.
In the past, these horses were mostly used for transportation and riding, rather than for farming.
However, during the 1990s, these two varieties have interbred, making the difference between the two much more difficult to determine.
In the early 1990s, initiatives were done to promote and expand the number of Albanian horses and to improve them for agricultural use.
The Hucul pony of Romania (also known as Carpathian mountain pony) is thought to be closely related to the Albanian horse.
If you’re interested in learning more about this fascinating breed, keep reading!
Alternative Names
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Temperament/Personality
The Albanian horse is well-suited to working in extreme conditions.
They have a lively temperament, and possess a great deal of energy as well as endurance.
Physical Characteristics
Albanian horse is exceptionally strong for its size, and has smooth movements.
They are tough, have incredible agility and balance in difficult terrain, and great endurance.
Colors
Black, chestnut, gray, bay
Height (size)
Mountain type 12.2 – 12.3 hands
Myzeqea type 13 – 14.1 hands
Stallions
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Mares
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Weight
670 lb (300 kg), and the average mare weighs 575 lb (250 kg)
Blood Type
Warm
Common Uses
Agricultural work, packing, light draft work, transportation, harness – they are used for riding only occasionally.
Health
Very resilient to illness.
Popular Traits
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Feeding/Diet
n/a
Country of Origin
Albania
Ancestors
Illyrian horses, Arabian, Tarpan, Mongolian horse