Another episode of our Horse Breeds around the World Series. Today we talk about a Russian Horse Breed, the Budenny Horse. Bred as a Cavalry mount in the Southern Russian steppes near the Don River, the breed has found friends in many countries who value its versatility and athleticism. I talk with Karina Rapp the president of the North American Budenny Horse Registry about the breed and how it has found its way from Russia to the USA.
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Horse Breeds Around the World
Different breeds and horse cultures
Today there are around 400 horse breeds in the world. Some are extremely popular such as Frisians, Thoroughbred, Arabians or Quarter Horses, whereas others are little known, such as the Caspian Pony, Noitgedachter or Marwari. Meanwhile many breeds are restricted to their home countries and some are threatened or nearly extinct. In our Horse Breeds Around the World Series we want to introduce some of the lesser known breeds to you and talk about what role they play in their home country and above all, why they should not be forgotten.
The Budenny Horse
The Budenny or Bujonny Horse is Russia’s youngest horse breed. Bred as a cavalry horse, it is basically a cross between the famous Don Horse and Thoroughbreds. The aim was a strong and athletic horse which could cover long distances quickly and was hardy and intelligent. These characteristics make them excellent sports horses today, suitable for almost every discipline. Several have participated successfully at the Olympics in show jumping and dressage and they are also well suited for Endurance and Trail riding.
Our Guests today:
Karina Rapp (USA)
Horse owner, breeder and zoo-archeologist, Karina Rapp has a keen interest in rare horse breeds and fell in love with the Budenny Horse when she purchased her first filly in 2008.
Website of the North American Budenny Horse Registry
Don’t forget to check out the resources section in this article!
Highlights
- Origin & Characteristics of the Budenny Horse
- How they came to the USA
- Establishing a rare breed abroad
Thank you for tuning in and happy trails!
Special Announcement
Travel the World on Horseback Virtually: With EQA TV
Are you looking for something new to watch instead of old reruns of sitcoms? Well, look no further!
We are thrilled to announce that season 1 & 2 of the Equestrian Adventuresses series is now available on Amazon Prime in the UK and the United States. More locations will follow soon. Travel with us for example to Greenland, Slovenia, Ireland or Greece.
Equestrian Adventuresses travel around the world on horseback, meanwhile sharing empowering women’s stories along the way. Explore hidden destinations and learn about the history and culture from the back of a horse. This is a show for those who love horses, travel and adventure!

Do you feel that we are missing out on an important topic? Or maybe you have an interesting story to tell? Contact Heather or Ute!
Resources
- The North American Budonny Horse Registry
- Rare Breed Survival Trust
- Website of Donskoi Stud in Russia
- Podcast about the Lipizzaner Horses
- Resources for Equestrian Adventuresses
- EQA Online Shop
Thanks for listening to our horse podcast Budenny Horses – The Last Gold of Russia!
