The Clydesdale horse is recognizable to so many Americans that some may not even realize the breed comes from far away in the emerald green lands of Scotland. In truth, American Clydesdale remains quite faithful to their Scottish roots.
A Little Backstory
Probably originally brought to the US early in the 20th century when the Scots were at peak draft horse production and export. We don’t have to explain why the Americans went horse crazy over their great strength, handsome bearing and kind demeanor. Their numbers in the US have never been high according the DAD-IS. However they are among the breeds Amish use for agricultural workhorses and it’s unclear if they report stock to central databases. There could be a larger number of these handsome animals in the US than reported.
What Makes Them Special
Their link to advertising campaigns can’t be ignored, it is the reason many Americans recognize the breed. Their fiery bay coats and flashy feathering make them instantly recognizable, everybody loves a Clydesdale. Like many heavy drafts, their numbers are low worldwide but we do hope the American strain sticks around, even if it is to pull a beer wagon. To learn more about them, be sure to check out the American Clydesdale breed page.
Quick Facts
Native to United States.
They don’t appear to have a centralized studbook.
The DAD-IS lists them as critical and as of 2017 they list them at 354.