Breed Introduction
The Akhal-Teke is one of the oldest and purest horse breeds in the world, originating from Turkmenistan in Central Asia. These horses were historically used as war horses by ancient nomadic tribes. The Akhal-Teke’s unique physique and incredible endurance make them ideal for long-distance riding. Today, they are primarily used in equestrian sports and shows.
Barn Stall
Akhal-Teke horses need a clean, spacious barn stall with a minimum size of 12×12 feet (3.7×3.7 meters). The stall should be well-ventilated and have ample natural light, with dry bedding materials such as wood shavings or straw.
Pasture
Provide a safe, spacious pasture with secure fencing, such as sturdy wood or metal. Avoid using barbed wire. The pasture should have ample grass and shelter, such as trees or sheds, to offer protection and rest areas.
Manure Removal
Regularly remove manure to maintain hygiene. Clean the barn stall daily and remove manure from the pasture weekly.
Diet
The diet of Akhal-Teke horses should mainly consist of high-quality hay and grass, supplemented with appropriate grains and vitamins and minerals. Daily feeding should be adjusted according to the horse’s weight, age, and activity level.
Fresh Water
Provide fresh, clean water daily. Horses need to drink 10 to 15 gallons (38 to 57 liters) of water per day. Ensure the water source does not freeze in winter and provide more water in summer, especially when outdoors.
Pasture Maintenance
Divide the pasture into sections using fencing. Rotate the horse to a new section once the grass is eaten down to 3 inches (7.6 cm). This helps maintain the quality of the forage.
Dental Checkups
Schedule dental checkups every six months for horses aged 2 to 5 years, and annually for those older than 5. Good dental health is essential for overall well-being.
Hoof Care
Lift and clean hooves daily using a hoof pick to remove dirt and debris. Schedule a farrier visit every 4 to 6 weeks to trim hooves, with more frequent visits if necessary.
Brushing
Brush your horse 2 to 3 times a week using a rubber curry comb in circular motions to bring dirt to the surface, then use a stiff brush to remove it.
Face Care
Use a soft brush to gently brush the face, following the direction of hair growth.
Mane and Tail
Comb the mane and tail: Use your fingers to remove large debris, apply detangler, and gently comb through, starting at the roots.
Main Concerns
Akhal-Teke horses are generally healthy but can be prone to certain genetic issues such as skeletal problems and nutritional deficiencies.
Lifespan
20-25 years
- The Akhal-Teke horse is famous for its unique metallic sheen.
- They excel in endurance racing and can run for long distances.
- The breed’s origins can be traced back thousands of years to Central Asia.
- They have a gentle temperament and are easy to train, making them suitable for various riders.
