Iranian Horse Breeds

The Asil (Arab)

Referred to in the West as the Arab, the Iranian branch known as the Asil has not only preserved the traditional strain system, ie., Koheilan Hamdani, Obayan, Saglavi, Hadban, etc. , but, has also preserved the original traits that made this breed world-famous. Beauty, Intelligence, and above all courage and stamina, combined with a gentle nature. In structure, more attention is paid to ability than merely it's outward appearance. For the above reasons, there has been considerable Western interest in acquiring Iranian Asil stock. The National Horse Society has as one of its aims the acceleration in the propagation of this breed Two Asil stud books exist.
1. The International: WAHO accepted Asil Stud Book
2. The National Asil Stud Book

The Caspian Pony

An elegant and refined pony, this horse is a miniature Arab of great value for the young in show-jumping and racing. Ancient stone engravings and archeological findings point to the fact that the Caspian pony may in truth be the first horse to be used in the Middle East. This pony has had much success abroad and is now bred in Bermuda, England, and New Zealand.

The Kurd

Like the Asil, in its own habitat, the Kurd is known by different names, depicting differences in breeding and outward appearance, i e., Jaff, Afshar, Sanjabi, etc.. The Jaff, the model of the horse in Persian miniatures, in all probability has Asil blood. In other Kurdish strains, altogether a strong compact horse, there are traces of possible descendance from the Nisaean War Horse, mentioned by Greek historians. Excellent for long distances and mountanous areas, The Kurd also has the ability to carry heavy weight.

The Iranian Thourouhgbred

The breeding of Thouroughbreds in Iran was commenced with high quality stallions and mares. Attention and care in the technical management of their breeding give hope of a promising future. The above can already be observed on the racetrack.

The Turkoman

In accordance with historical fact, archeological findings, and research, the Turkoman is one of the first breeds in Iran to have been developed and bred for use in specific purposes. Primarily used in raids, this horse is slim, tall, and finely built, possessing speed and stamina, making it an ideal horse for the racetrack. Similar to the Asil and the Kurd , the Turkoman also has several branches, the best known the Akhal-Take and the Yamut. A cross with the Western Thoroughbred produces good horses both for the track and for show-jumping.

The Native Iranian Horse

Indigenous to all parts of Iran, the size and build of these horses change in accordance with the area they are bred in, i e. rugged mountainous tribal terrain, or agricultural plains and valleys. Altogether, they are not very large, yet sturdy and strong, as well as sure-footed. For centuries this horse did all the hard menial jobs, used for pulling carts and carrying heavy loads.