Horse
Pronunciation:
terrsk
Breed Description:
The Tersk breed of horse is a light riding horse developed during the 1920s and 40s in Russia at the Tersk and Stavropol studs. Early ancestors include native Strelets horses, crossed with Arabians and Russian Dons. The intention was to develop a riding horse with the elegance and intelligence of the Arabian but with more substance, although today's Tersk horses are very similar in appearance to Arabians. The Tersk comes in all solid colors, but predominantly gray. The Tersk in its homeland is used as a riding horse and in circuses, but is becoming increasingly popular around the world for endurance riding and showing.
Temperament:
The Tersk breed of horse is intelligent and trainable, but is very energetic and can be spirited and willful.
Height:
The Tersk breed of horse stands 15 to 16 hands.
Weight:
The Tersk breed of horse weighs about 1000 pounds.
Health Problems:
The Tersk breed of horse has no significant health problems.
Living Conditions:
The Tersk breed of horse is a light riding horse breed, and welcomes stabling in inclement weather.
Exercise:
The Tersk breed of horse is very energetic and requires regular exercise. It is highly intelligent, and is easily bored. and benefits from variety in its training.
Life Expectancy:
The Tersk breed of horse is long-lived, often living into its thirties.
Grooming:
The Tersk breed of horse is fine coated, and needs regular grooming. The Tersk is normally kept with a natural appearance.
Origin:
The Tersk breed of horse was developed in Russia in the 1920s by crossing Russia Dons and Strelets (a now extinct breed formed by crossing Orlov Trotters and Arabians) with Arabians. The breed was offically recognized in 1948, and today there are around 250 Tersk mares being used for breeding for riding horses and export, and also as outcrosses for heavier Russian breeds and native ponies. 