Horse breeds / Murgese
Photo: BS Thurner Hof · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Horse breed
Murgese
The Murgese is an Italian horse from the Murge plateau in Puglia, in the south of Italy. It descends from local horses of the region and was developed as a sturdy working animal for farm labor, carting, and transport over rough, stony ground. Its breeding has long centered on strength, endurance, and a solid build suited to hard daily work.
Murgese horses are known for a calm, steady nature and a willing attitude. They tend to be patient and dependable, which makes them approachable for owners who want a reliable companion rather than a fast or flashy mount. Their movement is practical and sure-footed, and many handlers find them comfortable to ride at a steady pace. Experienced owners often appreciate their hardiness, though a patient beginner can also do well with the right guidance.
Day to day, Murgese horses need regular movement, a balanced diet, and consistent handling to stay content and fit. They do best with daily turnout and some form of structured work, whether riding, driving, or groundwork. Social contact matters too, so they should not be kept isolated for long periods. A routine that combines exercise, rest, and companionship suits them well.
Good for: Trail riders, first-time owners, working farm horses
| Size | medium |
| Weight | 992–1213 lb |
| Height | 59–63 in |
| Life span | 25–30 years |
| Exercise | about 60 min a day |
| Shedding | moderate |
| Origin | Italy |
Murgese horses are calm and forgiving, but their easy-keeper nature means you must watch feed and weight closely.
Living with a Murgese
Exercise
Murgese horses benefit from daily work and regular turnout to stay fit and mentally settled. A mix of riding or driving and free movement suits them well. Too little exercise can lead to weight gain, boredom, and stiffness.
Grooming
The Murgese has a dense coat that needs regular brushing, especially during seasonal shedding. Mane and tail can be kept tidy with gentle detangling. Feathering is not a notable feature of the breed. Hooves need trimming or shoeing every several weeks depending on workload and terrain.
At home
Murgese horses are hardy and adapt well to a range of climates, which suits both stabled and turnout arrangements. They generally cope well with outdoor living when given shelter from harsh weather. They do well in a herd, though they can also settle with a companion. Most are fairly easy keepers, so feed should be monitored to prevent weight gain.
Training
Murgese horses learn steadily and respond well to calm, consistent handling. They are suited to trail riding, driving, and general riding work, and can take part in some dressage or western-style activities with patient training. A green Murgese will usually be willing and forgiving, but it will need time to build strength and confidence before taking on demanding tasks.
Health
Murgese horses are generally hardy, but like many easy-keeping breeds they may be prone to metabolic concerns such as laminitis if overfed or insufficiently exercised. Owners should ask a veterinarian about breed-specific health screening and appropriate care. A vet can advise on diet, weight management, and preventive
- Laminitis
- Metabolic issues
- Colic
Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.
The numbers for a Murgese
Forage and water, adult
17–28 lb of hay a day
Forage at 1.5–2.5% of body weight at 992–1213 lb, and 10–18 gallons of water, more in heat and on hay alone. Grain only for the work being done.
What a year costs
$3,150–$5,350
Hay about $1,971, 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 Murgese 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 Murgese
Shelters and breed rescues list Murgeses and Murgese mixes every week. Search adoptable Murgeses on Petfinder → New to the breed? The first-horse kit →
Is a Murgese right for you?
- Yes if you want a calm, dependable all-round horse.
- Yes if you ride trails or enjoy steady, comfortable miles.
- Yes if you can manage feed carefully for an easy keeper.
- Think twice if you want a fast or highly athletic competition horse.
- Think twice if you cannot provide daily movement and companionship.
Questions owners ask
Is the Murgese good for beginners?
Many Murgese are calm and steady, which makes them suitable for patient beginners. Choose a well-trained individual and get guidance from an experienced instructor or trainer.
How much does a Murgese cost?
Prices vary widely by age, training, and location. Buying from a reputable breeder and having a vet pre-purchase exam are worthwhile steps regardless of cost.
How tall do Murgese horses get?
Murgese horses typically stand around 150 to 160 centimetres at the withers, roughly 14.7 to 15.7 hands, though individual heights vary.
How long do Murgese horses live?
With good care, Murgese horses commonly live into their mid-twenties to around thirty years. Diet, dental care, and preventive veterinary care all influence longevity.
Are Murgese easy keepers?
Yes, Murgese are generally easy keepers, so they can gain weight on modest feed. Monitoring body condition and limiting rich forage helps prevent problems.
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.