Karachay horse — a compact, sturdy, mountain-adapted breed of medium size with square or slightly elongated conformation (index 98–102). Height at withers: mares 1480–1560 mm, stallions 1520–1600 mm. Live weight: mares 400–480 kg, stallions 450–530 kg. Oblique body length 1480–1580 mm, chest girth 1800–1950 mm. Distinguished by a dry, light head of oriental type with a broad forehead and slightly convex (“ram” or “aquiline”) profile, a muscular neck of medium length with pronounced poll and crest in stallions, a short strong back, a broad muscular croup, dry strong limbs with solid dark hooves. Winter coat very dense and long (up to 40–50 mm), summer coat short, smooth, glossy. Predominant colors: black (dominant), dark bay, bay, seal brown, gray (including dappled). Small white markings allowed; pinto and spotted colors disqualified. Differs from the basic domestic horse by more compact build, smaller stature, exceptional hoof and tendon strength, dense winter coat, and high-mountain adaptation.