5. Friesian Horse
Height: 14-17 hands
Weight: 1,200-1,400 pounds
Originating in the Netherlands, the Friesian is a comparatively small horse in terminology of draft breeds. They were initially bred as agricultural animals, but with the advent of farm machinery, they adapted much more toward dressage and also pulling ceremonial carriages, in addition to pleasure riding. They are a very popular recreational horse, and also an estimated 70 % of horses in the Netherlands are Friesians. They normally have a striking black colored coat, leading them to sometimes be described as “Belgian Blacks.”
4. South German Coldblood Horse
Height: 16-17 hands
Weight: 1,000-1,500 pounds
Originating in southern Germany, the South German Coldblood, or “Suddeutsches Kaltblut,” is a somewhat small yet powerful draft breed. They are among the few horse breeds in the world that display leopard spotting and therefore are hardy, good-natured horses that have plenty of stamina and also a valued willingness to work. They are often used in agricultural work, however, their main use can be as show animals and carriage horses.
3. Percheron Horse
Height: 15-19 hands
Weight: 1,800-2,600 pounds
The Percheron originated in France and it is a well-muscled, strong horse famous for their ease and intelligence of trainability. They were originally used as warhorses prior to becoming well known agricultural horses, and also in the mid to late 1800s, they were essentially the most popular draft breeds in the United States. The Percheron remains one of the most widely used as well as well-known French draft breeds right now and can be found being used in nearly any discipline.
2. Suffolk
Horse Height: 16-17 hands
Weight: 1,900-2,200 pounds
Also commonly referred to as Suffolk Punch, the Suffolk horse is among the heaviest draft breeds originating in England. They are often chestnut in color and also have a muscular build. While they are generally shorter than other draft breeds, they are massively made, having been bred mostly for agricultural work. The breed is revered for their early maturation, being long-lived, their excellent work ethic, and also the basic fact that they don’t eat pretty much as other draft breeds, which makes them extremely economical to keep.
1. Shire Horse
Height: 16-18 hands
Weight: 1,800-2,400 pounds
Native to England, the Shire is among the earliest known draft breeds, dating back to the 16th century. They were once a typical warhorse breed but have since become most popular for their ability in agricultural and driving work. They are usually black, bay, or perhaps grey and also have previously held records for becoming both the largest and tallest horse in the globe. As a result of the horses’ muscular build, they are widely used in more different disciplines, which includes eventing and dressage.
