The Turkoman, also known as the Turkmene, was a desert horse closely associated with the modern Akhal-Teke. Though the Turkoman breed is now extinct, many people still refer to any horses that are bred in Turkmenistan as Turkomans. These moderns horses display very similar characteristics to the extinct breed. They have a long neck, sloping shoulders, small hooves, straight profile and very slender bodies. Their somewhat delicate appearance can be misleading because they are actually one of the toughest breeds in the world, often able to withstand harsh desert conditions like blistering heat and a limited water supply. Their fine coat can be any color, but it often has a metallic sheen to it.

These modern “Turkomans” are very courageous, loving and good natured, but they are bred for their speed and endurance. Training of colts begins at the young age of six months the horses are put on long tethers that they wear for life. When they are eight months old, they are first ridden by riders who are very young and light. They begin racing when they reach a year. The heavy felt blankets they are made to wear causes them to sweat profusely. This maintains their lean shape and prevents them from gaining body fat.

The true Turkoman Horse was originally from Turkmanistan, but is now extinct. Modern relatives of this breed include the Yamud and the Akhal-Teke.

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