Bosnian mountain horse
Origin and Development of the Breed
The Bosnian Mountain Horse originates from the region of the former Yugoslavia, particularly the area of present-day Bosnia and Herzegovina. Later, breeding expanded mainly to the hilly regions of the former Yugoslavia and other countries. In Slovenia, the breed appeared around the 16th century, presumably with the Uskoks. Modest breeding conditions and the desire for multipurpose use, especially for transporting goods in hard-to-reach and uninhabited terrains, significantly influenced the development of this modest, robust, and resilient breed.
Breed Characteristics
The Bosnian Mountain Horse is a noble warm-blooded horse, characterized by a sturdy constitution, gentle nature, and relatively lively temperament. These animals are small-framed with harmonious body shapes and exhibit pronounced sexual dimorphism. The withers height in mares ranges from 130 to 142 cm, and in stallions from 132 to 144 cm. All colors are permitted except gray, spotted, and piebald, with bays and blacks being the most common. The breed matures late, reaching full adulthood only at six years of age.
Breed Distribution and Endangerment
The International Association of Bosnian Mountain Horse Breeders implements a breeding program for the breed across the entire territory of Slovenia. According to the rules of the original herdbook, the breed is also bred in other countries: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Croatia, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, and Austria. The total population numbers slightly more than 350 horses, 95 of them is in Slovenia. Breed is classified as a critically endangered.
Purpose of Breeding and Products
Historically, the primary use of the breed was for transporting goods essential for daily life. The horse played a significant role during the Roman Empire and the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy, including in wars. Its utility in mountainous areas likely contributed to the presence of the Bosnian Mountain Horse in present-day Slovenia, especially for military mountain units and supplying most mountain huts. Today, the breed is established as a versatile horse for lighter work still performed by breeders and for recreational equestrian activities.
Photo Gallery
Javna služba nalog genske banke v živinoreji