Horse
Breed Description:
The Latvian breed of horse, also known as the Latviiskaya, is a descendant of ancient horses from various regions in Europe. Its early development included the use of primarily heavy draught breeds, but additions of Thoroughbred, Arabian, and Hanoverian blood, among others, led to the creation of the Latvian breed we know today. The Latvian breed of horse comes in three distinct types. The most prevalent and modern type is a light riding horse, while there are also still some rare examples of the harness type and the heavy draught type. The modern Latvian has an enormous but regal head, with an intelligent, calm expression, and a straight profile. The withers are pronounced and rise up from a long and powerful neck. The chest is deep and wide and is in excellent proportion to the large, sloping shoulders. The legs are short, straight, and powerful, with excellent muscling and well-formed joints. The back is rather long and straight with a sloping croup. The Latvian breed of horse is typically solid in color, especially chestnut, bay, black, or gray.
Temperament:
Like most large draught breed, the Latvian breed of horse is a calm, willing, and obedient worker. The Latvian horse is gentle and easily trained in a great variety of tasks and events. Because of this, the Latvian is utilized for heavy draught or agricultural work, carriage work, in the show ring, under the saddle, and even in jumping events. The Latvian is so docile and eager to please that it is often recommended for use with children or inexperienced riders. However, due to the infusion of Thoroughbred blood that occurred in the 18th century, the Latvian may prove somewhat nervous in new situations. As a result, care should be taken to properly train and socialize the horse.
Height:
15.1 hh to 16 hh
Health Problems:
The Latvian breed of horse was developed to be exceptionally hardy, and possesses incredible strength and endurance. There are very few serious health issues with the Latvian. However, this breed of horse is prone to certain defects such as cow hocks, ringbone pasterns, and sometimes joint issues. Additionally, the Latvian may be susceptible to other illnesses that are common in the breeds used to develop the Latvian, such as the Thoroughbred, Arabian, Hanoverian, and especially the Oldenburg. Orthopedic and joint problems, pulmonary issues, and fertility problems may occur if the lineage was not properly managed.
Origin:
The Latvian was in continual development for nearly one thousand years before a distinct type began to appear in the 16th and 17th centuries. Originally used as a heavy draught animal, its versatility and obedient nature created a desire to use the Latvian as a riding horse. In order to accomplish this, Thoroughbred and other riding breeds were added to the Latvian bloodline. The slow process of refining the breed led to the accidental development of the three different types, with Oldenburg blood being added in the last century. It was not until about 50 years ago that the breed became recognized as an official type, and has enjoyed increasing popularity as an excellent riding horse. 