Horse breeds / Tawleed
Horse breed
Tawleed
The Tawleed is a light horse from Sudan, developed from the country's Arabian-influenced bloodlines and shaped by desert and rural work. It was bred to be a dependable, tough mount that could cover long distances in hot conditions and handle the demands of everyday travel and herding.
Tawleeds are generally calm, willing, and sensible, with a level, economical way of moving. They tend to be cooperative under saddle and can suit riders who want a steady, uncomplicated horse. Because the breed is less widely known outside Sudan and the Middle East, availability and documentation in the US can be limited, so buyers should verify pedigree and origin carefully.
Day to day, a Tawleed needs regular work to stay fit and content, along with turnout and social contact with other horses. Good hoof care, consistent feeding, and protection from extreme heat and cold will help keep this hardy horse in good condition.
Good for: Trail riders, experienced recreational riders
| Size | medium |
| Weight | 882–1102 lb |
| Height | 57–61 in |
| Life span | 25–30 years |
| Exercise | about 50 min a day |
| Shedding | moderate |
| Origin | Sudan |
Confirm the horse's pedigree and origin papers carefully, since Tawleeds are uncommon outside Sudan and documentation varies.
Living with a Tawleed
Exercise
A healthy adult Tawleed usually benefits from roughly 45 to 60 minutes of ridden or in-hand work most days, plus free movement in turnout. With too little exercise, they can become overweight, stiff, or bored, and may develop behavioral issues or weight-related health concerns.
Grooming
The coat is typically short and easy to maintain, with routine brushing enough for most of the year. Mane and tail generally need only light detangling. Hooves should be trimmed or shod on a regular schedule. Clipping is rarely needed unless the horse is worked hard in winter.
At home
Tawleeds are hardy and adapt well to varied climates, which makes them practical for many owners. Daily turnout with shelter is preferable to long periods of stabling. They do best in a herd or with a companion, and they usually cope well with ordinary pasture and forage. Most are easy keepers, but body condition should be checked regularly, since native-type horses can gain weight on rich grass.
Training
Tawleeds are typically quick to learn and responsive to patient, consistent handling. They are generally suited to trail riding, endurance-style work, and general riding, and they can be pleasant partners for beginners who ride with a knowledgeable trainer. A green Tawleed should be expected to need steady groundwork and gradual conditioning before taking on long or demanding work.
Health
Information on breed-specific health conditions is limited, so the breed's known issues are not well documented. Metabolic concerns such as laminitis are worth discussing with a veterinarian, especially for easy keepers on rich pasture. Ask a vet to recommend a health plan and screening appropriate for this horse.
- Laminitis
- Metabolic issues
- Colic
Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.
The numbers for a Tawleed
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 Tawleed 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 Tawleed
Shelters and breed rescues list Tawleeds and Tawleed mixes every week. Search adoptable Tawleeds on Petfinder → New to the breed? The first-horse kit →
Is a Tawleed right for you?
- Yes if you want a calm, steady horse for trail riding
- Yes if you can keep a hardy horse on natural pasture
- Yes if you value an economical, sensible all-round mount
- Think twice if you need a horse with a well-documented US pedigree
- Think twice if you want a highly specialized show horse
Questions owners ask
Are Tawleeds good for beginners?
Many are calm and willing, which can suit beginners. Choose a well-started horse and ride with an experienced instructor or trainer for the best results.
How much does a Tawleed cost?
Prices vary widely by pedigree, age, training, and location. Because the breed is uncommon in the US, expect the search and import process to add to the cost.
How tall are Tawleeds?
Adults typically stand around 145 to 155 centimetres at the withers, which is roughly 14.2 to 15.2 hands. Individual horses can vary.
How long do Tawleeds live?
With good care, a Tawleed can often live into its mid-twenties or beyond. Regular veterinary and dental care supports a long, healthy life.
What are Tawleeds used for?
They are generally used for riding, trail work, and light practical work. Their hardiness and steady nature make them suitable for long, sensible rides.
Similar breeds
Written by Hoofdeck editors · updated Nov 13, 2026 · facts from Wikidata; health notes are general veterinary guidance, not a diagnosis.