The oldest record of the Abtenauer horse is from 1898. It is a cold blooded draft breed. Some believe it to be a variant of the Noriker horse. However, it is rather small compared to a Noriker. In addition, unlike Nokier horses, foals are covered in curly hair which they shed within their first year.

ORIGINS
Abtenauer horses originated in an isolated area in the Abtenau Valley of Austria. Studies have shown that they originated from Austrian horses. Mares and foals spend the summers in pasture high in the mountains and are fed salt once a week to prevent them from becoming feral. In the winter they are rounded up and protected from the harsh weather.

PHYSICAL FEATURES / PHYSIQUE
Abtenauer horses are small and stocky. Though they are much weaker in comparison to the Noriker horses, Abtenauer horses are still very strong for their size. Graceful and fluid in their movements, they have a low center of gravity, giving them amazing balance. Being a coldblooded breed, they have very thick, powerful, muscular legs, with feathering on the backs. They average about 14.2 to 15.1 hands in height and weigh about 1,100 pounds. The most common color is black. However, they also come in chestnut, grey and blue roan. It is preferred that they don't have "leopard spotting."

TEMPERAMENT
Being a coldblooded breed, Abtenauer horses are calmer with a more docile temperament that the lighter horse breeds. They have a quiet and willing disposition. They are very energetic and ready to work.

USES / ASSETS
Known as an excellent mountain horse, the Abtenauer is very suitable for pulling heavy loads and navigating mountainous, rugged terrain. It is also used for agriculture work and pleasure riding.

STATUS
There were 178 Abtenauer horses listed in registry books in 1939. Today, there are less than 100 purebreds left in or around Abtenau Valley. The breed is said to be endangered.