When it comes to unique and eye-catching horse breeds, the Bashkir Curly stands out as one of the most remarkable.
Known for its striking curly coat and calm, intelligent temperament, this horse has an intriguing mix of beauty, mystery, and resilience. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or just a curious animal lover, the Bashkir Curly offers plenty to admire. Let’s dive into 10 fascinating facts about this extraordinary breed.
1. Their Coats Are Naturally Curly—Seriously
One of the most recognizable traits of the Bashkir Curly is, unsurprisingly, its curly coat. These curls can range from loose waves to tight ringlets, covering not just the body but sometimes even the eyelashes and inside of the ears. What’s even more interesting is that their coats change with the seasons. In winter, they grow thick, curly hair to protect them from the cold. Come summer, many Curlies shed most of their coat, often revealing straighter or finer hair underneath.
2. They’re Hypoallergenic
Yes, really. This might sound too good to be true, but Bashkir Curlies are often considered hypoallergenic. Many people who are allergic to horses have found that they can spend time around Curlies without experiencing the usual symptoms. This is thought to be due to a different type of protein in their hair and dander. While not every allergic person will be symptom-free, these horses have made horse ownership possible for many who had previously written it off.
3. Their Origins Are Still Somewhat Mysterious
Despite the name, Bashkir Curlies are not directly from the Bashkir region of Russia. The breed as we know it today was first documented in North America in the late 1800s when ranchers noticed unusually curly-coated horses surviving harsh winters in the Nevada mountains. No one knows for certain how the gene for the curly coat arrived, but some believe it may have come from early horses brought over by settlers or even from ancient breeds that carried the gene naturally.
4. They’re Incredibly Hardy
Bashkir Curlies are known for being tough and resilient. This isn’t just a stereotype—they have genuinely adapted to survive extreme weather conditions. In fact, during one particularly brutal winter in the mid-20th century, Curlies were among the only horses to survive on the open range without extra feed. Their thick winter coats insulate them against subzero temperatures, and their hooves are hard and well-shaped, ideal for rugged terrain.
5. They Excel in a Variety of Disciplines
Don’t let their cuddly appearance fool you—Curlies are versatile athletes. They perform well in a wide range of disciplines, including dressage, jumping, trail riding, western pleasure, and even endurance events. Their calm, collected demeanor makes them great partners in competitions, while their stamina and strength give them the edge in physically demanding activities.
6. Their Temperament Is One of Their Greatest Assets
Bashkir Curlies are known for their exceptionally gentle, friendly, and intelligent nature. They are naturally curious and seem to enjoy interacting with people. These horses form strong bonds with their owners and are known for being easy to train. Their calm temperament also makes them excellent choices for children or beginner riders, as well as for use in therapeutic riding programs.
7. They Come in All Colors
While the coat texture is their most famous feature, Bashkir Curlies come in nearly every horse color imaginable. From chestnut and black to bay, dun, and even pinto patterns, the breed showcases a rainbow of coats. This color diversity adds to their charm and makes every Bashkir Curly visually unique.
8. Some of Them Have a Unique Gait
Although not all Bashkir Curlies are gaited, some exhibit a natural, smooth gait that’s incredibly comfortable to ride. Known by some enthusiasts as the “Curly Shuffle,” this gait is a four-beat lateral movement that helps reduce bounce for the rider. It’s just another feature that makes them stand out—both visually and under saddle.
9. Their Manes Sometimes Fall Out—But It’s Normal
One quirky trait of the Bashkir Curly is their tendency to lose parts of their mane and tail during certain times of the year. While this might alarm new owners, it’s completely normal. Many will shed their mane in the summer and regrow it in the cooler months. It’s all part of how their bodies adjust to the seasons. And yes, it usually grows back just as curly as before.
10. They’re Still Considered a Rare Breed
Despite all their amazing qualities, Bashkir Curlies are still relatively rare compared to more common breeds. Breed organizations and devoted owners are working hard to preserve their unique genetics and raise awareness about the breed. For those lucky enough to own one, it’s often said that once you’ve had a Curly, no other horse quite compares.
The Bashkir Curly is more than just a pretty face with a unique hairdo. It’s a breed full of surprises: tough, loving, athletic, and, for many, life-changing. Whether it’s their allergy-friendly coats, intelligent eyes, or simply the joy of brushing out those wild curls, Curlies have a way of capturing hearts wherever they go. If you’re looking for a horse that combines personality, beauty, and resilience, the Bashkir Curly might just be your perfect match.