The Lokaï horse
This saddle horse, originally from Tajikistan (Central Asia), has been bred by the Uzbek Lokai tribe (hence the name) since the 16th century. It is now thought to be the result of crossing local strains with various breeds such as the Iomud, Karabair, Karabakh, Terek, Arabian and Thoroughbred. Its origins are indefinite, but it is speculated that the Lokai horse may be a descendant of the horses used by the Hitties (an ancient Anatolian people) combined with Mongolian horse origins. Like the Karabair horse, these horses, already quite rare, suffered a major decline during the civil wars in Tajikistan in the 1990s. In fact, it’s in this country that these two breeds are bred, one in the north and the other in the south.
Caractère et aptitudes du cheval
This docile horse is hardy, courageous, and agile. Its feet are sure-footed. One of the particularities of this breed is that it tends to grow slowly in its natural environment. It is possible to achieve faster growth in Lokai horses with more rigorous maintenance and better feed management.
Utilisations du cheval
Saddle horse, packhorse, at ease on difficult terrain. Honorable in sporting competitions.
Morphologie du cheval
Proportionate head. Straight or slightly convex profile. Small ears. Mediolinear body type. Fairly long neck. Fairly high withers. Muscular, sloping shoulders. Deep chest. Short, straight back. Sloping croup. Strong limbs. Good bone structure. Dry joints. Well-shaped feet, hard horn. Coat: chestnut with golden highlights, bay, gray, rarely black and Isabelle. Mane and tail furnished. Height: approx. 1.45 m.
