Buryats are one of the smallest horses in Siberia and share
ancestors with the Mongolian breed, although they tend to be taller. They are native
to a climate that is incredibly harsh, (there are only about a 100 days a year
above freezing temperatures in parts); and as a result they are very tough.
Throughout the years severe (and often cruel) training
methods combined with selective breeding and an intense natural environment has
created an almost indestructible, fertile animal with a long life span.
Since 1897 Thoroughbred stallions (and some trotters) have
been brought to the area to improve the breed. However the fertility and
toughness of the breed tends to be compromised by the influx of new blood. There
are very few purebred animals of this breed left today.