The breed originated in a high-altitude biotope, at around 2,400 m, around the Datong drainage basin[1] in northern Qinghai.
[2]: 154 The head is heavy, of medium length, broad in the cheeks, with a straight or "rhinoceros" profile.
[2]: 154 The neck is short, thick and muscular, not very well connected to the withers, which are fairly flat.
[2]: 154 The light Datong has a drier head, longer limbs and a more refined muzzle than the heavy type, and is reputed to be strong and lively.
[2]: 154 The Datong is also renowned for its exceptional endurance, particularly at high altitudes,[2]: 154 up to 3,500 m.[1] The coat is bay, chestnut, black, or sometimes gray or, even more rarely, leopard complex.
[2]: 154 Genetic studies have determined that this breed belongs to the Qinghai and Tibetan Plateau horse group, of which the Datong is a member along with the Hequ, Chaidamu and Yushu.
[5] The Datong is one of China's native horse breeds, originating in northern Qinghai to be precise.