Akhal-Teke

The Akhal-Teke is a race horse that dates its origins back to 2400 BC; Akhal-Teke horses originated from and are used as an emblem of Turkmenistan. In this country, horse-racing is the most popular sport.

In the past, Akhal-Tekes have been mentioned in ancient texts by the writers of the Chinese Han Dynasty and of Herodotus, the Greek historian. Akhal-Tekes have preserved their purity and abilities which they inherited from their ancestors because since the ancient times, these horses have been bred in a geographically isolated desert called the Kara-Kum desert and until now, these horses are continued to be bred for their speed and stamina. 

Akhal-Teke. Photo grabbed from Monica Borg.

Akhal-Tekes have been used to breed other horses such as the English Thoroughbred, the Arabian, the Trakhener, and the Russian Warmblood. Stud farms for Akhal-Tekes are found mostly in Russia, Turkmenistan, and Kazakhstan.

Standing from 15-16 hands, these horses are characterized by a high head carriage and a long, slim or slightly convex body, with their colors ranging from black, chestnut, palomino, buckskin, and grey, and are known for their distinct metallic sheen.  They are known for their speed and endurance on long marches. Akhal-Tekes have almond-shaped eyes and long ears. They have long and straight backs, a scarce amount of manes and tails, and they have a thin and silky coat unlike other horse breeds. They have thin, firm lips, hooked muzzles and have small, hard hooves.

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They jump over fences and make use of its front and hind legs very well. They also have well-developed muscles, and their moves are long, elastic, as well as comfortable for the horse rider. Akhal-Teke owners have no problem with this horse since they are known to be friendly towards people, be quick and observant, as well as bond with trainers very effectively. The Akhal-Tekes are naturally athletic, have great endurance, and energetic, which makes them effective for use in all classical sports, as well as on events such as show jumping, eventing, racing and endurance riding. In the Soviet Union, Akhal-Tekes are famous for winning show jump competitions. They can also be good sport horses.


There are diseases that may be of concern to Akhal-Teke owners. One is the Naked Foal Syndrome, where foals are born without any hair coat, mane or tail. Symptoms include dry, inflamed skin, and frequent pulmonary infections. This disease is fatal, killing foals within weeks of birth, and others die from complications and digestive problems.