The Don is a Russian breed which was first used by the Cossacks from western Russia.
The Don - developed by crossing native horses with larger Russian and Iranian breeds - was bred by Cossacks living on the fry, grassy plains around the Don and Volga rivers. Conditions here are harsh - with bitter winters and searing hot summers - so the horses must be tough and adaptable.
This background proved its worth when, in 1812, the Dons were involved in a famous battle. Napoleons army had reached Moscow itself and the French seamed certain to conquer Russia as a result. But Cossack units forced Napoleon to retreat and then went on to drive his army all the way back to Paris. The Russian winter took a heavy toll of the exhausted French cavalry but the hardy Dons survived both the long journey and the terrible weather.
In the 19th century, the introduction of Thoroughbred and Arab blood gave the Don height and elegance without reducing its natural hardiness. With this upgrading, no further crosses were necessary. Today the Don is pure-bred.
APPEARANCE
The Don is lean and elegant. Its head is similar to that of the Thoroughbred: it is broad between the eyes, with small ears. The neck is long and straight with an upright shoulder. Its body is long and deep and the legs are long and strong.
HEIGHT
15.1 to 16.2hh.
COLOUR
Chestnut, bay or grey, sometimes with a golden sheen to the coat, which is common in Russian breeds.
PERSONALITY
Dons bred in the wild developed great stamina. They can go for long distances and withstand extreme weather conditions. They are popular today for endurance and general riding, and as foundation stock for other breeds, for example, the Budyonny.
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