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The breeding of mountain horses emphasized sure-footedness, endurance, and cold tolerance over speed or size. The horses that could safely navigate narrow trails, that could carry loads up steep slopes without becoming winded, that could survive winters on minimal feed—these were valuable animals whose quality directly affected military capability and economic mobility.
The selection for breeding favored mares and stallions that demonstrated desired qualities. The colts were evaluated as they grew, the promising individuals receiving extra care and training while others might be gelded or sold. The careful breeding over generations created horses adapted to specific mountain conditions, their characteristics matching the environment where they would work.
The training that created useful horses began when animals were yearlings, the gradual habituation to human handling and equipment preventing the dangerous behavior that inadequately trained horses might display. The mountain horse had to tolerate being loaded with packs, being ridden up and down steep trails, being left tied for extended periods—all without panic or dangerous reactions. The patient training that developed these qualities was time-consuming but essential investment.
The use of horses for warfare, transport, and status meant they were more valuable per animal than other livestock. The theft of horses was serious crime, the loss of trained horse being significant economic blow. The careful guarding of horse herds and individual animals reflected their value and the constant threat from both human thieves and predator attacks.
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