Curly horse

Overall description of the breed

The Curly, also known as the North American Curly Horse, is a breed of saddle horse originating from the United States. The precise origins of this breed remain mysterious, but its presence in the United States has been documented since the 1800s. The development of the breed began in the late 19th century in Nevada, where early breeders crossed Curlies with other breeds due to their initially low numbers. This led to a morphological diversity among Curly horses. The first stud book for this breed was established in 1971.

Curlies are easily recognizable by their curly coat, a unique characteristic among horse breeds. This adaptation makes them particularly well-suited for cold climates. Although some popular beliefs suggest that Curlies are hypoallergenic, this has not been scientifically proven. Despite their rarity, with a global population estimated between 4,000 and 4,600 horses in 2012 and 2013, Curlies are known for their versatility and can participate in various equestrian disciplines.

Physically, Curly horses exhibit a wide range of morphologies due to their historical crossbreeding. They can stand between 14 and 16 hands high (56 to 64 inches) and weigh between 990 and 1,400 pounds. Their manes and coats are typically curly, and they can come in various colors, although solid colors are the most common.

In terms of health, Curlies are generally robust and well-suited to challenging environments. Their solid build and dense coat protect them against harsh weather, allowing them to survive in extreme conditions. However, like all horse breeds, they require regular veterinary care to prevent common equine diseases.

Curlies are renowned for their gentle and cooperative nature. They are often described as intelligent, easy to train, and very attached to their owners. This friendly disposition makes them ideal horses for riders of all levels, including beginners and children.

Training and educating Curlies should be done with patience and gentleness. Their natural intelligence and desire to please make training easier. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques and can excel in various disciplines such as leisure riding, dressage, and even ranch work.

The breed is officially represented by the American Bashkir Curly Registry (ABCR) and the North American Curly Horse Registry (NACR). In Europe, particularly in Germany and France, the breed has been officially recognized since 2011. These organizations ensure the preservation and promotion of this unique breed, maintaining the quality of bloodlines and adherence to breed standards.

In summary, the Curly is an exceptional horse breed, distinguished by its curly coat and ability to adapt to cold climates. Its versatility, friendly nature, and robustness make it a valuable companion for riders of all backgrounds. Though rare, the breed continues to develop and gain popularity worldwide.