Home / Indian Horses / Bhutia Horse

By Jeffery Garfield

Last updated: 5th July 2023

Bhutia Horse

By

Jeffery Garfield
Last updated: 5th July 2023

The Bhutia Horse, found in the Himalayan regions of Nepal, India, and Bhutan, is a breed of small and compact horses bearing resemblance with the Tibetan and Mongolian equine breeds. It is suited to the rough terrain and cold climate of the mountains, where it is useful for transportation work.

Bhutia Horse Pictures

Quick Information

Alternative Names Bhotia Pony, Bhutan Pony, Bhutani, Bhote Ghoda
Temperament/ Personality Willing, quiet, strong character
Physical Characteristics Large head, pronounced jaw, straight profile, short neck, low withers, straight back, sloping quarters, straight shoulders, deep chest, well-set tail, short, and strong legs
Colors Bay, gray, chestnut, roan
Height (size) Male: Approximately 14.3 hands (145 cm, 57 inches)
Female: Approximately 12.3 hands (125 cm, 49.2 inches)
Weight Male: Average of 761 lb (345 kg)
Female: Average of 573 lb (260 kg)
Common Uses Light agriculture work, carrying loads, transporting people; occasionally for riding in equestrian sports
Health No known specific health conditions related to the breed
Feeding/Diet Good quality hay and grass; legume hays including alfalfa, clover, and peanut; 5-15 gallons of water a day depending on activity level and temperature
Distinguishing Traits Self-sufficient, extremely resilient, eats sparingly, economical to keep
Country of Origin India

History and Development

The ancestry of these horses is unclear, though today’s Bhutia Horses are believed to have evolved because of extensive interbreeding between local horses and ponies. Cross breeding among Bhutia, Spiti, and Tibetan ponies for many years have led to the loss of their individual characteristics. Therefore, these breeds are often collectively named as Indian-Country-Bred ponies. Furthermore, lack of organized breeding programs and shortage of fodder have affected the size and strength of Bhutia Horses.

One response to “Bhutia Horse”

  1. David Shannon says:

    I have silver cups of Alexander Shannon my grandfather’s won by showing his bhutia ponies in darjeeling in the early 1900’s.

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