Overview of Livestock Development
The following table shows the number of domestic animals in Bulgaria in 1893 and 1900, together with the percentage of increase or decrease. These figures provide a clear picture of the progress in livestock farming during this period.
Animal Number in 1893 Number in 1900 Change (Increase/Decrease)
Horses 343,946 494,557 +43.78%
Mules 8,264 8,887 +7.56%
Donkeys 81,610 107,098 +31.23%
Cattle 1,425,781 1,596,267 +11.95%
Buffaloes 342,193 431,487 +26.09%
Sheep 6,868,291 7,015,385 +2.14%
Goats 1,263,772 1,405,190 +11.19%
Pigs 461,635 367,501 –30.39%
Poultry 3,426,637 4,751,751 +38.86%
These statistics show that, overall, livestock numbers increased steadily between 1893 and 1900. The most notable growth occurred among horses, donkeys, buffaloes, and poultry, while pigs were the only group that declined significantly Customized Private Turkey Tours.
Improvement of Animal Breeds
The improvement of animal breeds in Bulgaria is achieved mainly through selection and crossbreeding. Local animals are often crossed with high-quality breeds from other countries to produce stronger and more productive offspring. This system helps increase the yield of milk, meat, and wool, and also improves the working capacity of animals used for farming and transport.
The Bulgarian Government supports this effort by encouraging breeders and providing practical assistance through agricultural commissions and co-operative societies established in different provinces. These organizations help farmers apply modern breeding techniques and maintain the health of their animals.
Government Support and Breeding Centers
To promote animal breeding, the Bulgarian Government has established five large State depots for stallions. These centers provide high-quality horses for breeding, with the aim of improving the national stock.
In addition, there are several cattle-breeding stations, particularly near the agricultural colleges of Sadovo (in Philippopolis) and Roustchouk (Ruse). These stations supply pedigree bulls and cows to farmers, helping to increase milk production and improve herd quality.
The Government also offers prizes and rewards to breeders who excel in improving their livestock. Financial assistance is often given to those who wish to purchase pedigree animals from abroad for breeding purposes.
Growth of Dairies and Milk Production
Although dairies are still in their early stages in Bulgaria, they are expected to grow rapidly. The Government pays special attention to dairy development, as it plays a key role in modern farm management. Dairies not only help increase the supply of milk, butter, and cheese, but also create employment opportunities and support rural communities.
In provinces where cattle and buffalo breeding is already established, the introduction of small local dairies has begun to transform the rural economy. As hygiene standards and breeding practices improve, Bulgaria is expected to become a significant producer of high-quality dairy products.
The steady increase in livestock numbers between 1893 and 1900, together with the Government’s active support for breeding, training, and dairy production, demonstrates Bulgaria’s commitment to agricultural progress. The combination of scientific breeding methods, financial incentives, and State supervision has already produced visible results.
With continued modernization, Bulgaria’s livestock industry is set to become one of the strongest sectors of its rural economy, contributing to both domestic prosperity and future export potential.