The Clydesdale Horse

This large breed of draught horse can be traced back to the 19th century Clydesdale, now Lanarkshire area of Scotland. Both the commercial and agricultural scenes displayed a strong need for these large horses.

The coalfields of Lanarkshire and the streets of Glasgow are where the Clydesdale horses first made their work debut. Stallions from Belgium and England were imported to achieve the desired breed of long legs and large feet which was necessary to work in the Scottish soil. This resulted in the foundation of what we know as the modern day Clydesdale horse.

The breed’s reputation grew to the point that Scottish breeders began exporting them to Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the United States. Today the Clydesdale is almost exclusively the only draught breed in its native Scotland, and is still favored in the other four countries as well. There is in fact a hugely popular brewery in the US which uses Clydesdale horses to pull promotional beer wagons at special events. They allow these superb horses to be viewed at close distance in their temporary shelters. They are regarded as company goodwill ambassadors. Most would say rightly so.

Today’s Clydesdale typically weighs in from 1600 to 2000 pounds (113.6 to 142 stones). They usually stand 16 to 19 hands (162.5 to 193 cm, or 64 to 76 in) at the shoulder. Though larger than the original Scottish breed, the large feet, solid legs and characteristic looks of the original Clydesdale horses have been retained. The coats are usually vivid in colour and the faces are usually white, however the most popular distinction is the four white, feathered socks which start at the knee. The legs are normally feathered with long white hair, and the most usual colour for a Clydesdale is bay. It’s not uncommon however to see Clydesdales in black, brown and chestnut colours. It is fine to accept these for purebred registration.

The overall take on this breed is that of a thoroughly well-built horse which is full of strength and activity. They naturally hold their heads high and seem very proud, almost aristocratic. Their strength and docile nature are apparent even when standing still, such is their stature. Once seen performing, Clydesdale horses are an awe-inspiring site which leave a lasting impression!

For more horse information and horses for sale please visit the Horse and Pony Directory.

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