Horse
Breed Description:
The Heck breed of horse is an ancient-looking horse that was bred in an effort to revive horse species that became extinct in Europe in the latter half of the 19th century. The Heck horse is small in stature, but has a large head and wide, compact neck. The breed is easily recognized by the zebra markings on its strong legs and hindquarters, and by the dorsal stripe that runs along its back. The Heck breed of horse has very strong but short legs, and sound hooves that provide a high stepping gait that is useful in both pulling and riding.
Temperament:
The Heck breed of horse is known to be a very independent and stubborn animal. However, the Heck is also exceptionally friendly and enjoys attention. The Heck breed of horse is calm and relaxed in most situations, and is inquisitive and intelligent enough to enjoy exposure to different environments and stimuli.
Height:
12.2 hh to 13.2 hh
Health Problems:
The Heck horse was bred in order to re-establish the hardiness of the ancient horse in Poland and Germany known as the tarpan, which became extinct before the turn of the 20th century. The Heck breed of horse has no known health issues, and thus is an easy keeper.
Origin:
In the early 20th century, two German scientists; the Heck brothers, began a program to breed back the extinct tarpan horse. The Heck brothers believed that by breeding modern horses and ponies that had characteristics similar to that of the tarpan they would be able to return the breed to its ancient status. However, they met with mixed results, as the Heck horse looked strikingly similar to the tarpan, but possessed an entirely different genetic makeup. Horses used in the Heck breeding program included Koniks, Icelandic Ponies, and Przewalski horses; a breed from Poland. Hecks were imported to the United States as early as the 1950’s, and today there is a large organization that promotes and protects the breed known as the North American Tarpan Association. Today, the Heck breed of horse is enjoying a revived popularity, as it is being used to create new breeds that exhibit the hardy and willing characteristics of the ancient tarpan. 