The Bashkir, also known as Bashkirsky, originated in Bashkiria centuries ago around the southern foothills of the Urals. There were two types of ponies that evolved in the USSR, the Mountain and the Steppe Bashkir. The Mountain Bashkir was crossbred with Dons and Budonnys. The Steppe Bashkir was crossbred with Trotters and Ardennais stallions.The Bashkir was bred to be a riding, pack or draft pony and to supply meat, milk and clothing. One mare could supply 330 to 550 gallons in a 7 to 8 month lactation time. These ponies are particular acclimated and hardy. They can survive under extremely cold conditions and find food in less than three feet of snow.