Bosnian Pony
The Bosnian Pony, which originates in the former Yugoslavia, bears many similarities to both the Hucul and the Konik breeds of pony, with which they are collectively know as the Balkan breeds. They are all ancient breeds and the Bosnian pony is considered to have developed through a cross between the Tarpan and the Asian Wild Horse, also know as Przewalski's horse. Further infusions of oriental stock probably would have been introduced to the breed by the Turks during the Ottoman Empire, and this led to a deterioration within the breed, which was rectified by repeated introductions of Tarpan blood.
The Bosnian pony has been prized in its area for many centuries and, since 1900s, has been selectively bred. For many years, the principal center of breeding was at the Borike Stud in Bosnia, where stallions were strictly controlled by the state, while mares were under private ownership. The use of three stallions - Agan, Barat and Misco - during the 1940's had an important overall improving effect on the stock. The former two were of a type similar to the Asian Wild Horse, and stocky in build, while Misco had a lighter, better-quality appearance. Until the recent troubles, there was a very strict standard set for stallions to ensure that only the strongest specimens were allowed to breed and they were required to compete in performance tests.
Due to the careful controls imposed, the Bosnian pony is an extremely useful and functional animal, quite capable of light farm work, light draft, pack and riding. They are frequently used for pack purposes, being very surefooted over terrain unsuitable for motorized vehicles. They are hardy and tough, with a docile temperament, which makes them easy to handle and good to ride.
In appearance, the ponies retain a fairly primitive look, which is in line with
the Asian Wild Horse, but with greater quality and refinement due to the
infusions of oriental blood. They have a heavy head with a straight profile,
full forelock, and small ears. They have a short muscular neck, with long
sloping shoulders, a straight back, sloping quarters, and a wide and deep chest.
They are often bay, brown, black or palomino in color, and stand between 13 hh
and 14.2 hh.