The Akhal-Teke breed
The Akhal-Teke is one of the oldest, rarest, and undoubtedly most exotic breeds of full size horse in the world. Developed by the fierce nomadic warriors of Central Asia more than three-thousand years ago, the Akhal-Teke is often referred to as the world's "mystery horse," because it has influenced many, yet been influenced by none. Revered as kin to God and celebrated as a cherished national symbol in Turkmenistan.... no other horse can lay claim to the history, legend, and mystique that defines the Akhal-Teke. Many things have been written about this amazing breed, it's ancient origins, unique characteristics, and captivating appearance. Therefor, we will not delve deeply into repeating what's already been published, but rather, share our own experience with the Akhal-Teke in the modern world.
They are our puppy dogs....very people oriented and like to be touched and played with.
They are our puppy dogs....very people oriented and like to be touched and played with.
They also happen to be incredibly gorgeous...
Sweet Water Farm Akhal-Teke was established in 1999, and since that time we have been breeding, raising, training, and competing purebred Akhal-Teke horses almost exclusively. We feel very honored to be one of the few farms in America that specializes in such wonderful creatures. Unfortunately, much has been said about the Akhal-Teke that is largely based on myth and is contrary to most people's real experiences with the breed. Over the years we have come to know the Akhal-Teke as a horse of remarkable character and unsurpassed beauty, elegance, and athleticism. Visitors to our farm are always amazed at how friendly and polite our horses are... from our youngest foal to our oldest stallion... they are inquisitive and sweet without being pushy or intimidating. In our experience, this is due to a mixture of good upbringing and the natural characteristics of the breed. Akhal-Tekes are gentle, sweet, sensitive, extremely personable... and more like dogs than horses in their desire to interact with humans. In comparison to other hot-blooded breeds, Akhal-Tekes are innately level-headed and not prone to spooking. Their sensitivity and intelligence makes them easy to train and light on the aides, while their elastic gaits make them exquisitely smooth to ride. Our passion is three-day eventing and we feel that the breed's cat-like ability for jumping, courage on cross-country, and grace in the dressage arena make them exceptional competitors in this sport. But we have also found that the same attributes make Akhal-Tekes a delight to ride on the trails, teach students on, or simply enjoy as part of the family. Sweet Water Farm is home to a unique riding program for students of all ages... in which all of our school horses are purebred Akhal-Tekes. Contrary to the myth that they are "one-person horses," our Akhal-Tekes are adored by students and can be handled, ridden, and competed safely by a variety of riders. Our three-day event horses pack small kids around jump courses, give lunge lessons, take tourists on trail rides, and compete at the county fair.