Horse
Breed Description:
The Heihe breed of horse has a history dating back several hundred years, although it has only recently become an official, established breed. Utilized mainly for farming, pulling, and other agricultural purposes, the Heihe horse possesses great endurance and strength. Usually bay or chestnut in color, the Heihe horse can sometimes also be grey, black, or brown. The Heihe breed of horse has a medium sized head and neck, with large eyes and elongated ears. The Heihe has powerful limbs with bent hocks and forelegs that are disproportionate to the cannons. The high withers and natural gait of this breed do not make it a superb riding horse, although in its native land of China it is still ridden by some.
Temperament:
The Heihe breed of horse is a willing and able worker, and was bred specifically to be obedient and compliant to its owners and handlers. The Heihe is independent and prefers solitude or the company of other Heihe horses. The Heihe can be described as stoic, but not unfriendly. It is primarily a dedicated worker, and therefore is typically eager to please.
Height:
14.2 hh to 15 hh
Health Problems:
The Heihe breed of horse is quite resistant to disease. Bred primarily to endure long days of working in the fields, the Heihe possesses incredible stamina and hardiness. The Heihe requires little care from its handlers, and most of these horses are left outside, even in temperatures far below zero, and are quite at peace in this environment. The Heihe breed of horse is unlike to contract illnesses or health conditions provided that it is not overworked.
Origin:
The Heihe breed of horse was developed based upon the extreme need in the Heihe region of China for an animal that could provide agricultural work and transport, and require very little expense to care for. The breed was created using bloodlines from Soulun and Mongolian breed stock, with introductions of the Russian Orlov Trotter in the 18th century. Over time, coldblood draft stock was added, along with more common saddle breeds such as the Arabian and the hard-working Percheron. While the Heihe has been used in China for several hundred years, it was not until the last half of the 20th century that it became an officially recognized breed. 