Horse breeds / Russian Don
Photo: Fefa Koroleva · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Horse breed
Russian Don
The Russian Don comes from the Don River region of southwestern Russia, where it was developed in the 19th century by crossing local Cossack horses with Thoroughbred, Arabian, and other stock. It was bred to be a hardy, versatile riding horse for Cossack cavalry and farm work on the steppe.
Russian Dons are known for a sturdy build, a solid, sensible temperament, and a free, ground-covering way of going. They are generally willing and steady under saddle, which makes them a reasonable choice for riders who want a dependable all-round horse. Many owners find them calm enough for less experienced riders, though they still have enough spirit to keep an attentive rider engaged.
Day to day, Russian Dons do best with regular work and turnout with other horses. They are social and do not enjoy being isolated for long. Consistent handling, a predictable routine, and regular exercise help them stay content and well mannered.
Good for: Trail riders, first-time owners, all-round recreation
| Size | medium |
| Weight | 992–1213 lb |
| Height | 60–64 in |
| Life span | 25–30 years |
| Exercise | about 45 min a day |
| Shedding | moderate |
| Origin | Russia |
Expect a sturdy, sensible horse that still needs consistent work, turnout, and a careful eye on weight.
Living with a Russian Don
Exercise
A healthy adult typically needs daily work of around 30 to 60 minutes, plus regular turnout. Too little exercise can lead to excess energy, weight gain, and stiffness, especially in a horse kept mostly in a stall.
Grooming
Russian Dons have a fairly low-maintenance coat that is easy to keep tidy with regular brushing. Their mane and tail are typically thick and can be detangled as needed. Hooves should be trimmed or shod on a regular schedule, and clipping is usually only needed for horses in heavy work during winter.
At home
Russian Dons are hardy and adapt well to a range of climates, so turnout for much of the day is usually well tolerated with a suitable shelter. They are generally comfortable living in a herd. Most are fairly easy keepers, so good-quality forage and a measured amount of concentrate are often enough, but body condition should be checked regularly.
Training
Russian Dons are generally willing learners and respond well to patient, consistent training. They are suited to trail riding, dressage, and general riding. A green Russian Don is usually steady to start under saddle, though it will need time to build strength and balance before taking on more demanding work.
Health
Russian Dons are generally considered a robust breed, though like all horses they can be affected by common conditions such as laminitis, especially if overweight. Ask your veterinarian about a breeding soundness check and a routine health plan suited to your horse's age, diet, and workload.
- Laminitis
- Colic
- Hoof problems
Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.
The numbers for a Russian Don
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 Russian Don 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 Russian Don
Shelters and breed rescues list Russian Dons and Russian Don mixes every week. Search adoptable Russian Dons on Petfinder → New to the breed? The first-horse kit →
Is a Russian Don right for you?
- Yes if you want a sturdy, sensible all-round riding horse
- Yes if you plan regular trail riding or ground work
- Yes if you can provide turnout with companions
- Think twice if you want a highly specialized show horse
- Think twice if you need a very small or light-boned horse
Questions owners ask
Is the Russian Don good for beginners?
Many Russian Dons are steady and sensible, which can suit less experienced riders. Temperament varies by individual, so an experienced evaluator should assess any horse before purchase.
How much does a Russian Don cost?
Prices vary widely with age, training, bloodlines, and location. Because the breed is less common in the US, it is best to ask breeders directly for current pricing.
How tall do Russian Dons get?
Adults typically stand around 152 to 163 centimetres at the withers, roughly 15 to 16 hands.
How long do Russian Dons live?
With good care, a Russian Don can often live into its mid-to-late twenties, similar to many riding horses.
Are Russian Dons easy keepers?
Most are fairly easy keepers, so feed and weight should be monitored closely to avoid obesity and related risks.
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.