Achal Tekkiner - The rare thoroughbred with the shiny coat

Achal-Tekkiner profile

• Breed: Achal-Tekkiner
• Origin: Turkmenistan - one of the oldest horse breeds in the world
• Type: Thoroughbred
• Stock size: 1.50 to 1.65 m on average
• Weight: 400 to 500 kg
• Colors: Often in shimmering gold shades such as Perlino, Falbe, Isabell - but there are also Achal-Tekkiner in silver, black and brown
• Special feature: The extraordinary shine of the coat, which has earned the horse the nickname "Most beautiful horse in the world"
• Character: Intelligent, sensitive, persevering, loyal, spirited
• Use: riding and sport horse, long-distance racing, endurance riding, dressage
• Life expectancy: Up to 30 years

Achal-Tekkiner origin and history

The Achal-Tekkiner originates from Turkmenistan and is one of the oldest and noblest horse breeds in the world. Its history goes back over 3,000 years. It was originally bred by the nomadic tribes of Central Asia, who needed a horse that could survive in extreme desert conditions and cover long distances without water.

Its name is derived from the Achal oasis and the Teke tribe living there, who specialized in breeding the Achal-Tekkiner for centuries. The horses were not only kept as loyal companions of the nomads, but also as valuable war and prestige horses. Even in ancient times, they were known for their exceptional speed and endurance and were highly prized by Persian rulers and Alexander the Great.

The breed was almost forgotten in the 19th and 20th centuries until the Soviet government began to systematically promote breeding. Today, Achal-Tekkiner horses are a rare breed, with only around 6,000 registered specimens worldwide. However, their influence on other noble horse breeds such as the English Thoroughbred is undeniable.

What does an Achal Tekkiner look like?

The Achal-Tekkiner horse has a unique and unmistakable appearance. Its physique is designed for speed, endurance and efficiency, which makes it particularly lean, yet muscular.

• Height: Between 1.50 and 1.65 m, occasionally larger
• Weight: 400 to 500 kg
• Physique:
  
  • Lean and athletic, with dry, well-defined muscles
  • Long, narrow head with a straight or slightly convex profile line
  • Long, high-set neck that is elegantly curved
  • Deep chest, but overall narrow torso
  • Long, slender legs with pronounced tendons and hard hooves
  • Flat back and high carried tail

A special feature of this breed is the coat: it is extremely fine and short, which gives the Achal Tekkiner its legendary metallic sheen. This is particularly pronounced in Achal Tekkiner Perlino, or in Achal Tekkiner Gold, but Achal Tekkiner in silver or other colors can also exhibit this effect.

It is also noticeable that many Achal-Tekkiner horses hardly have a mane or it is very fine and thin. This is due to their natural adaptation to the hot climate, as a thick mane would be a hindrance in the desert.

Achal-Tekkiner character

These horses are not only extremely enduring and willing to perform, but also extremely intelligent and sensitive.

• Loyal and people-oriented: An Achal Tekkiner can develop a very close bond with its rider or owner. It is a one-human horse that needs trust and calm, consistent leadership.
• Spirited and independent: These horses are often strong-willed and show a distinct character. They are not always easy to lead and require a sensitive but clear hand.
• Sensitive and capable of learning: Thanks to their high intelligence, Achal Tekkiner horses are very eager to learn. They react sensitively to their surroundings and the mood of their rider.
• Extremely enduring: Originally bred as an endurance and desert horse, the Achal Tekkiner has an incredible performance capacity. It can cover long distances in difficult conditions without tiring quickly.

Achal Tekkiner breeding

The breeding of the Achal Tekkiners is strictly regulated in order to preserve the unique characteristics of this ancient horse breed. There are only a few Achal Tekkiner breeders worldwide who have specialized in the preservation of these noble and rare horses.

• Purebred breeding: The Achal Tekkiner is traditionally bred pure, without crossbreeding with other breeds. This ensures that the special conformation and character traits of these horses are preserved.
• Achal Tekkiner brand: Bred horses are marked with a special brand that confirms their origin.
• Strict selection: Only the best horses with excellent body structure, stamina and temperament are accepted for breeding.
• Breeding areas: Today, Achal Tekkiner breedingis mainly found in Turkmenistan, Russia, Germany and the USA.

As Achal Tekkiner horses are rare and require careful breeding, buying a purebred animal can be very expensive.

Areas of application and intended use

The Achal-Tekkiner is a versatile horse that is valued above all for its endurance, speed and intelligence. Due to its lean, athletic build and exceptional performance, it is used in various disciplines.

• Endurance ridingThe Achal Tekkiner is one of the best endurance horses in the world. Its extreme endurance and resilience make it ideal for long distances under difficult conditions.
• DressageThe Achal Tekkiner 's elegance, suppleness and intelligence also make it a convincing dressage horse. However, his sensitive nature requires a particularly fine riding style.
• Show jumpingEven though the Achal Tekkiner is not a typical show jumper, some lines show good abilities in show jumping. Its agility and power enable remarkable performances on the show jumping course.
• VersatilityIn eventing, he scores with his speed and endurance, especially off-road.
• Leisure and trail riding: For experienced riders, the Achal Tekkinercan be an excellent off-road partner. It is sure-footed and can cover long distances with ease.
• Show and show performances: Thanks to its impressive appearance, especially in Achal Tekkiner in Gold or Perlino, this breed is often used for shows and presentations.

Although the Achal-Tekkiner is versatile, it is not suitable for every rider. It needs a sensitive, experienced hand and a close relationship with its rider in order to develop its full potential.

Keeping and care

The keeping of an Achal Tekkiner makes special demands, as this horse breed is adapted to the harsh climate of desert regions. Their metabolism and coat growth differ from other horses, which requires special housing and feeding conditions.

Housing conditions

• Open stable preferred: An Achal Tekkiner is very hardy and feels most comfortable in a well-structured open stable. Keeping them purely in boxes is not ideal for these active horses.
• Large grazing areas: As they originally come from the steppe, they benefit from extensive paddocks with plenty of space to move freely.
• Social contact: Although many Achal-Tekkiner horses develop a close bond with their humans, they are still herd animals and need contact with other horses of their own species.

Feeding and Nutrition

• Light-fed: These horses are adapted to a meagre diet and require high-quality, but not too rich feed.
• Structure-rich roughage: hay should be the main source of nutrition, combined with mineral-rich supplements.
• Little concentrated feed: High-calorie feed can lead to metabolic problems, as the Achal-Tekkiner utilizes nutrients particularly efficiently.
• Sufficient water: Due to their origin in dry areas, Achal-Tekkiner horses often drink less than other breeds, but still need access to clean water at all times.

Special care requirements

• Coat care: The short, fine coat requires little care, but should be brushed regularly with a soft brush to maintain the typical metallic sheen.
• Hoof care: The hard, resistant hooves are often robust enough to be kept barehoof, but regular checks by the farrier are still important.

Winter management: As Achal Tekkiner horses often produce little winter coat, they may need a blanket in colder regions. blanket or sheltered shelters

Typical diseases

Metabolic diseases in the Achal-Tekkiner

As Achal-Tekkiner horses originally come from a barren environment, they utilize nutrients particularly efficiently. Feeding them too much energy, especially with too much concentrated feed, can lead to metabolic disorders such as laminitis or EMS (Equine Metabolic Syndrome) can result. An adapted diet that is rich in structure and not too high in content is therefore essential.

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Sensitive skin and sunburn

Especially Achal Tekkiner in gold, Perlino or silver often have light-colored skin that reacts more sensitively to sunlight. Horses with light-colored mouths or pink skin can be susceptible to sunburn. In summer, they should have access to shady areas and, if necessary, be protected with sunscreen for horses.

Susceptibility to stomach ulcers

Due to their sensitive nature, Achal-Tekkiner horses react sensitively to stress, feed changes or long breaks in feeding. This can lead to stomach ulcers which is a common disease in sport horses. Regular feeding, plenty of roughage and a calm environment can reduce the risk.

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Joint and tendon problems

The Achal-Tekkiner has a very fine, light build and extremely dry, long legs. As a result, it can be prone to tendon and joint problems in some cases, especially if it is overloaded when young. Gentle training and targeted training are important to avoid overloading.

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Hereditary diseases in the Achal-Tekkiner

As with many old horse breeds, there are some genetic diseases that can occur in Achal Tekkiner breeding. One of these is Naked Foal Syndrome (NFS), a lethal hereditary disease that leads to a complete lack of coat in foals. Affected foals usually do not survive. Reputable Achal Tekkiner breeders test their animals for this genetic disposition in order to minimize the risk.

The most frequently asked questions about Achal-Tekkiner horses (FAQs)

Why do Achal-Tekkiner horses shine?

The typical metallic sheen of the achal tekker is created by the unique hair structure. The hairs are particularly fine and have a transparent surface that reflects and intensifies the incident light. This effect is particularly visible in Achal-Tekkiner in gold or Perlino.

How expensive is an Achal-Tekkiner?

The price of an Achal-Tekkiner depends on pedigree, training and quality. A foal can cost between 10,000 and 30,000 euros, while well-trained horses with a special pedigree can reach prices of 50,000 euros or more.

How old does an Achal-Tekkiner get?

An Achal-Tekkiner can live up to 30 years if kept well. A species-appropriate diet, sufficient exercise and a stress-free environment contribute significantly to a long and healthy life.

Is an Achal-Tekkiner a thoroughbred?

Yes, the Achal-Tekkiner is a thoroughbred and therefore belongs to the same group as the English Thoroughbred or the Arabian Thoroughbred.

How much can an Achal-Tekkiner carry?

Although the Achal-Tekkiner is often slimmer and lighter than other horse breeds, it has amazing strength and stamina. As a rule, an Achal-Tekkiner can carry around 20 % of its body weight, which corresponds to 80 to 100 kg rider weight.

Why do Achal-Tekkiner horses have no mane?

Many Achal-Tekkiner horses only have a very thin or barely visible mane. This is due to their adaptation to the hot desert climate, as a thick mane could hinder heat dissipation.

Are Achal-Tekkiner horses suitable for beginners?

No, an Achal-Tekkiner is not the ideal horse for beginners. It is very sensitive, temperamental and requires experienced, calm leadership.

Why are Achal-Tekkiner horses so rare?

The Achal-Tekkiner is one of the rarest horse breeds in the world. Strict selection in breeding, the pure bloodline and the limited number of breeders ensure that the population remains small. There are only around 6,000 registered Achal-Tekkiner horses worldwide.

How many Achal-Tekkiner horses are still around?

The worldwide population of Achal-Tekkiner horses is around 6,000 registered animals. Most of them live in Turkmenistan, Russia, Europe and the USA.

Which breed is the Achal-Tekkiner?

The Achal-Tekkiner is a thoroughbred and is one of the oldest riding horse breeds in the world.

Where are Achal-Tekkiner horses native?

The Achal-Tekkiner originally comes from Turkmenistan, in particular from the region around the Achal Oasis.

Is an Achal-Tekkiner a warmblood?

No, the Achal-Tekkiner is a thoroughbred and not a warmblood.

What do Achal-Tekkiner horses look like?

The Achal-Tekkiner is known for its slim, athletic build, its long, elegant neck and its dry, fine limbs. Its short, fine coat can come in a variety of colors, often with a metallic sheen.

What colors are Achal-Tekkiner available in?

The most common colors are gold, perlino, dun, brown, black and silver. Achal-Tekkiner in gold are particularly well-known and are often referred to as the "most beautiful horse in the world" due to their shine.

Can Achal-Tekkiner horses be black?

Yes, there are also Achal-Tekkiner in black, but they are rarer than the typical gold-colored horses.

Can Achal-Tekkiner jump?

Although the Achal-Tekkiner is not considered a classic show jumper, some horses of this breed have good jumping abilities. They particularly benefit from their speed and agility.

Why do Achal-Tekkiner horses have a unique shine?

The hairs of the Achal-Tekkiners are particularly fine and almost transparent, which reflects the light and creates the typical metallic sheen.

How heavy is an Achal-Tekkiner?

The weight of an Achal-Tekkiner is between 400 and 500 kg, depending on size and muscle mass.

How many Achal-Tekkiner horses are there in the world?

It is estimated that there are only around 6,000 purebred Achal-Tekkiner horses left in the world.