Albanian
Reviewed for accuracy November 11, 2022. The Albanian breed is named after its place of origin—Albania. A common horse breed, the Albanian is ideal for riding detail but is also useful in light draft work. Physical Characteristics There were originally two types of the Albanian breed: the “Mountain Albanian” and the “Myzeqea,” or “Plains Albanian,” a designation which came from the horses’ breeding grounds. The Mountain Albanian measures from 12.2 to 12.3 hands (around 49 inches, 125 centimeters) high, while the Plain Albanian is taller at around 13.2 hands (53 inches, 134 centimeters) high. Due to crossbreeding, however, the differences between the Mountain and the Plains types have blurred through the years and are no longer clearly apparent. Though smaller and lighter, the Mountain Albanian was also slightly more agile and spirited than the Plains Albanian. For this reason, the Mountain Albanian was preferred for riding. The Plains Albanian, meanwhile, was heavier and taller. Due to its slightly larger form, it was mainly used for draft work like pulling carriages and light loads. The Albanian’s gait is easy and natural, and it is quite strong for its size. Generally, the Albanian horse is chunky and stocky; it appears in common colors like chestnut, black, or gray.
