Abyssinian horses originated in Ethiopia and Eritrea, formerly
known as Abyssinia. They are found today along the coastline of the Red Sea and
in the Sudan. Abyssinian horses were first exported to England in 1861. The Abyssinian
is on average about 13.3 hands high and has a wide variation in color and conformation.
The Abyssinian’s coat is short and rough and special attention must be given to
this breed to keep their coat clean and free of dirt. Because of their unique hair
growth pattern, the Abyssinian can be difficult to brush. Their coat is also unique
in that it has a rosette pattern. Many breeders in England have worked to improve
this unusual pattern. They also have green eyes due to uncommon genes. Despite its
smaller size the Abyssinian has been bred for strength, which makes it very valuable
for its ability to live and work in mountainous areas.