Horse breeds / Kabarda horse
Photo: «ВЭС». (СПб; 1913 год). · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Horse breed
Kabarda horse
The Kabarda is a horse from the Kabardino-Balkaria region of the North Caucasus in Russia, developed over centuries by Kabardian and Circassian breeders. It was bred as a fast, sure-footed mountain and steppe riding horse, valued for stamina, agility on rough ground, and its ability to carry a rider through long days in difficult terrain. Its history is closely tied to the horsemanship traditions of the Caucasus.
Kabardas are known for an athletic, rhythmic way of going and a lively but thoughtful temperament. They are typically loyal to their handlers and can be bold on the trail, though they may be more forward than a placid beginner's mount expects. Experienced owners tend to appreciate their intelligence and responsiveness. Beginners do best with a calm, well-started individual and an experienced trainer nearby.
Day to day, a Kabarda needs regular movement, consistent handling, and a steady routine. They do well with daily work and time with other horses, and they tend to form strong bonds with their people. Plan for regular grooming, hoof care, and the kind of attention that keeps a sensitive, engaged horse content.
Good for: Experienced riders, trail and endurance enthusiasts
| Size | medium |
| Weight | 882–1102 lb |
| Height | 57–61 in |
| Life span | 25–30 years |
| Exercise | about 60 min a day |
| Shedding | moderate |
| Origin | Russia |
Choose a well-started, calm individual and get experienced guidance, since Kabardas can be forward and spirited.
Living with a Kabarda horse
Exercise
A healthy adult Kabarda typically benefits from daily ridden or in-hand work along with regular turnout. Without enough movement, they can become restless, over-energetic, or difficult to manage.
Grooming
Kabardas have a fine, dense coat that is easy to maintain with regular brushing. Their mane and tail are typically kept tidy with light trimming as needed. Hooves should be checked and trimmed or shod on a regular schedule, and clipping is usually only needed for horses in heavy work during winter.
At home
Kabardas handle a range of climates and generally do well with daily turnout in a field or paddock with shelter. They tend to be hardy and adapt to outdoor living, though they still need a dry, draft-free shelter in harsh weather. They usually do best in a herd or with a companion. Most are moderate keepers, so feed should be adjusted to body condition and workload.
Training
Kabardas learn quickly and respond well to clear, consistent schooling with patience and fairness. They are well suited to trail riding, endurance-style work, and general riding, and they can move into dressage or jumping with training. A green Kabarda is often forward and energetic, so expect a period of building focus and calm before it settles into reliable work.
Health
Like many horses, Kabardas can be affected by common equine conditions such as laminitis and colic. Owners should keep feeding and exercise consistent and ask a veterinarian about any breed-specific concerns and a suitable preventive care plan.
- Laminitis
- Colic
- Hoof problems
Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.
The numbers for a Kabarda horse
Forage and water, adult
15–25 lb of hay a day
Forage at 1.5–2.5% of body weight at 882–1102 lb, and 9–16 gallons of water, more in heat and on hay alone. Grain only for the work being done.
What a year costs
$2,950–$5,050
Hay about $1,752, plus farrier every 6–8 weeks, routine vet, dental and dewormer. Board, lessons and showing on top; US averages.
Weather
Watch above 80°F, stop at 90°F
Blanket or shelter below 10°F. Horses mind heat more than cold: with shelter and water most are fine to about 10°F unclipped, and above a heat index of 150 (air °F + humidity %) ride early or not at all.
Where a Kabarda horse is comfortable
Easy most of the year: Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Washington, DC, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.
Summer needs care (early rides, shade, fans): Arizona, Nevada, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah.
Winter needs care (blanket, shelter, water that is not frozen): North Dakota.
From typical July highs and January lows by state and this breed's heat and cold limits. Shade, shelter and water change everything; this is about turnout and work.
Right now
Latest feed recalls
Multiple Brand Names: Chicken Feed, Swine Feed, Cattle Feed, Horse Feed
ADM Animal Nutrition · Apr 1 · Specific lots may contain elevated levels of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium and/or chloride and may harm chickens, swine, beef cattle and equine.
Rescue a Kabarda horse
Shelters and breed rescues list Kabarda horses and Kabarda horse mixes every week. Search adoptable Kabarda horses on Petfinder → New to the breed? The first-horse kit →
Is a Kabarda horse right for you?
- Yes if you enjoy an athletic, forward horse with spirit
- Yes if you ride regularly on trails or varied terrain
- Think twice if you want a very calm, low-energy beginner mount
- Think twice if you cannot provide daily movement and work
- Yes if you value a loyal, intelligent partner with a strong bond
Questions owners ask
Is the Kabarda good for beginners?
Usually not as a first horse. They are spirited and forward, so a calm, experienced individual with guidance from a trainer works best for a beginner.
How much does a Kabarda cost?
Prices vary widely by bloodline, training, and location. Consult breeders and sellers in your area for current market prices.
How tall is a Kabarda?
Kabardas are generally small to medium-sized horses, typically around 145 to 155 centimetres at the withers.
How long do Kabardas live?
With good care, Kabardas often live into their mid-twenties or beyond, similar to many riding horse breeds.
Are Kabardas easy keepers?
They are generally moderate keepers. Adjust feed to body condition and workload, and check with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist.
Similar breeds
Written by Hoofdeck editors · updated Nov 13, 2026 · facts from Wikidata and Wikimedia Commons; health notes are general veterinary guidance, not a diagnosis.