Horse
Breed Description:
The Iomud breed of horse, sometimes referred to as the Iomudskaya, has a history that spans nearly one thousand years. Descended from ancient horses from Turkmenistan, the breed has a thin and light neck and head, with a refined profile and large nose. The Iomud has rather pronounced withers and a strong, straight back. The legs are strong with good joints and excellent hooves. The Iomud has a very deep chest and sloping shoulders, making it an agile jumper and endurance animal. The breed is typically gray in color, but may also be found in bay, black, and chestnut. The breed is considered to be endangered, and efforts are under way to restore the animal to healthier breed-stock numbers.
Temperament:
The Iomud breed of horse is an incredibly adept worker and riding horse. Always willing to work when thoroughly domesticated, the breed fares well in close quarters with people. However, due to the history of the animal and the region from which it comes, many examples of this breed are somewhat feral in nature, and may display attitudes of nervousness, flightiness, and sometimes, aggression. The Iomud breed of horse is considered to be an excellent riding animal, possessing a smooth gait when moving above a walk.
Height:
14.2 hh to 15.2 hh, with some variations both under and over this standard
Health Problems:
There are no known health problems in the Iomud breed of horse. In fact, the Iomud was bred in the poor, infertile regions of Turkmenistan and the former USSR to subsist on very little feed rations and water. Therefore, the breed is extraordinarily hardy and is an easy keeper. However, due to its exceptionally willing nature, care must be taken not to overwork the breed, as the Iomud will perform its duties long after it has become injured, ill, or severely malnourished.
Origin:
The Iomud breed of horse has been developed over many centuries in the territories once occupied or owned by the former Soviet Union. It is an ancient, breed, although specific breed standards have only recently been established. The breed was created to serve many purposes- partly for light draught work, partly as transport, and partly for meat. The breed was developed utilizing ancient Turkmenistan horses from the steppes, and was refined and strengthened utilizing blood from the Akhal-Teke, of which it is most closely associated. The Iomud has a reputation as a superior jumper and endurance horse, and has proven its value in some of the world’s most rigorous endurance events. 