Horse breeds / Tusheti horse
Photo: Lidia Ilona · CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Horse breed
Tusheti horse
The Tusheti is a small, hardy mountain horse from the Tusheti region of northeastern Georgia, in the high Caucasus. Local herders and highland communities bred these horses to carry people and loads over steep, rocky terrain and through harsh mountain winters, and they remain a working type in their home valleys. Their compact build and sure footing reflect centuries of that purpose rather than any show-ring standard.
Tushetis are known for steady, cooperative temperaments and a surefooted, economical way of going on trails. They tend to be sensible and confident rather than flashy, which makes them a practical choice for riders who value calm reliability over speed. Beginners can do well with a seasoned individual, though a green horse may need patient, consistent handling to build trust.
Day to day, a Tusheti does best with regular movement, time outdoors, and the company of other horses. Their hardiness means they handle variable weather well, but they still need steady routine, sound hoof care, and enough work to stay fit and content.
Good for: Trail riders, first-time owners, pack and hacking
| Size | small |
| Weight | 661–882 lb |
| Height | 47–55 in |
| Life span | 25–30 years |
| Exercise | about 60 min a day |
| Shedding | heavy |
| Origin | United States (Georgia) |
Tushetis are steady and hardy, but as easy keepers they need careful diet and exercise management to stay healthy.
Living with a Tusheti horse
Exercise
A healthy adult typically needs regular daily movement, with ridden or in-hand work several days a week and ample turnout between sessions. With too little exercise, they can become overweight and bored, which raises the risk of metabolic problems.
Grooming
Tushetis carry a thick winter coat that sheds heavily in spring, so regular brushing helps during shedding season. Their manes and tails are typically full and can be kept natural or trimmed as preferred. Hooves need regular trimming or shoeing based on terrain and workload, and clipping is usually
At home
Tushetis are hardy and generally cope well with turnout year-round, with shelter from wind, rain, and snow. They are usually happiest in a herd, and they should not be kept isolated for long. Most are easy keepers, so pasture and good forage often cover much of their needs; monitor body condition closely, especially in lush grass.
Training
Tushetis tend to learn steadily and respond well to consistent, patient handling rather than pressure. They are well suited to trail riding, pack and packing work, and general hacking, and many can be taught basic dressage or western skills. A green Tusheti will usually be thoughtful and willing, but expect slower, deliberate progress and build confidence before asking for much.
Health
Like many easy-keeping horses, Tushetis can be prone to laminitis and other metabolic issues if overfed or insufficiently exercised. Breed-specific health data is limited outside the region, so ask a veterinarian about conditions relevant to the individual horse and its diet.
- Laminitis
- Metabolic syndrome
- Colic
Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.
The numbers for a Tusheti horse
Forage and water, adult
12–19 lb of hay a day
Forage at 1.5–2.5% of body weight at 661–882 lb, and 7–12 gallons of water, more in heat and on hay alone. Grain only for the work being done.
What a year costs
$2,550–$4,500
Hay about $1,358, 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 Tusheti 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 Tusheti horse
Shelters and breed rescues list Tusheti horses and Tusheti horse mixes every week. Search adoptable Tusheti horses on Petfinder → New to the breed? The first-horse kit →
Is a Tusheti horse right for you?
- Yes if you want a calm, sure-footed trail companion.
- Yes if you can provide herd company and steady routine.
- Yes if you ride in rough or hilly country.
- Think twice if you want a fast, flashy show horse.
- Think twice if you cannot manage an easy keeper's diet closely.
Questions owners ask
Are Tushetis good for beginners?
Many are steady and calm, but a seasoned, well-mannered individual is safer for a first-time owner. Look for one with a proven record under saddle or in harness.
How much do Tushetis cost?
Prices vary widely by region, age, and training level, and they are not common outside Georgia. Check with reputable breeders or importers for current figures.
How tall do Tushetis get?
Adults typically stand around 120 to 140 centimetres at the withers, making them a small, compact horse. Individual height varies.
How long do Tushetis live?
With good care, they often live into their mid-twenties or beyond. Regular veterinary and hoof care supports a long, healthy life.
Are Tushetis easy keepers?
Yes, most are easy keepers and can gain weight on rich pasture. Monitor body condition and adjust feed and turnout accordingly.
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.