Caspian Breed History & Breed Characteristics:

History:

Ancient writings, artifacts and recent DNA studies suggest that the Caspian is a living remnant of the subspecies of horse that is the ancestor of all the hot blooded breeds. This suggests the Caspian Horse one of the most ancient domestic breeds of horse in existence today.

Thought extinct for some 1300 years, Lousie Firouz found them again in 1965 on the shores of the Caspian Sea. Later the Shah of Iran presented England's Prince Philip with a pair of Caspians. Several British exportations followed just prior to the revolutionary wars in Iran. These precious few became the mainstay for the foundation and salvation of Caspian Horse outside its native country.

General and Unique Breed Characteristics:

Caspians are very small, elegant horses, averaging 11 to 12.2 hands. They come in all colors except skewbald and piebald. With fine skin and silky coats that can appear iridescent in summer, the breed type varies from exotic to hunter-jumper but always with slim, deep girths, finely chiseled heads and almond shaped eyes.

Caspian movement is free flowing and light like the dancing of fairies. Their mountain heritage gives excellent shoulders, well angulated hocks and great maneuverability. Caspians are highly intelligent and alert, but even stallions are kind, willing and easily trained.

Modern Usage:

               Courtesy of Julie Hooi, SC                          Courtesy of Kristull Ranch                         Courtesy of Kristull Ranch

The Caspian is an ideal first pony for children, yet they are strong enough to carry older children and even small adults. Their jumping abilities are phenomenal often jumping as high as full size horses. As a driving horse, Caspians are quick, graceful and agile with plenty of strength. These same traits make them an excellent choice for Gymkhana.

Current Status - Critical:

As of 2006, there were less than 1,500 known Caspians in the world. Although Iran now operates a government stud, the survival of the Caspian in its native homeland is difficult, and with American embargos in place, the expectation of importing any fresh bloodlines to America in the near future is nil. Caspians are listed by the Equus Survival Trust as Critical. Census data estimated 500 Caspians residing in America in 2006.