Clydesdales horses are probably one of the most recognisable heavy horse breeds. Clydesdales are easy to spot thanks to their large stature and trademark feathering around their hooves and their high stepping action . Clydesdale horses combine strength with elegance and their striking appearance and calm demeanour have captured hearts around the world.
Origin
The Clydesdale horse comes from an area known as Lanarkshire Scotland around the river Clyde, where they take their name from. Their history goes back to the mid 18th century. Clydesdale were used for hundreds of years to pull hefty loads and machinery in agricultural, mining and forestry industries.
Breed Overview
Weight 1,600 to 2,400 pounds
Height 16 -18 Hands (64 – 72 inches)
Life Expectancy 20 – 25 years
Colours, Bay is the most common but can also be black, roan and chestnut. Clydesdale are also known for their white stockings and broad white blazers.
Temperament
Clydesdale horses are often described as gentle giants, they are great with kids, crowds and curious first timers and are renowned for their calm and gentle personality. They tend to be calm, willing and easy to handle when properly trained and socialised. Although they do require confident handling. Clydesdales do generally enjoy working with people and form strong bonds with their owners. Clydesdales have a patient nature which makes them ideal for carriage, driving, pleasure riding and educational events.
care
Because of their size Clydesdale require thoughtful management.
- Feed, due to their size they consume greater quantities of feed and have high quality hay they can eat approximately up to 15 pounds of grain, 50 – 60 pounds of hay and 30 gallons of water every day. The amount of food needed changes based on your Clydesdales weight, age and exercise level.
- Easy Keepers, Clydesdales are considered easy keepers, like most drafts these horses have an efficient metabolism and can quickly become overweight or obese. Obesity is a significant concern because carrying excess body fat can increase the risk of joint problems and put excess strain on the laminae of the hoof.
- Grooming, Clydesdale’s need regular grooming, those fancy feathers covering much of their lower legs and around their hooves look majestic but require a lot of care washing and brushing to keep skin issues away.
- Exercise, Clydesdales also benefit from light exercise because it helps improves their circulation, which can reduce the risk of stocking up and chronic progressive lymphoedema.
Closing Thoughts
Clydesdale horses are an impressive and beautiful breed, from their large stature to the magical feathering covering most of their lower legs and hooves to their gentle hearts and friendly personalities. They truly are gentle giants and are a living symbol of strength, grace and history. These magnificent horses continue to capture people’s hearts wherever they go and I hope that continues for generations to come.
