Intro
Also known as the Belgian Heavy Horse, Brabançon or Brabant, the Belgian Draft is not only one of the strongest draft breeds, but this breed has also held the world record for the tallest & the largest horses in the world.
Origins
This breed comes from the Brabant region of what is now Belgium where it is called the Cheval de trait belge, Belgisch Trekpaard, Brabants Trekpaard or Brabander. Said to be the most direct descendants of the “Great Horse” of medieval times, the Belgian draft horse was the animal who carried knights onto the battlefield. Most draft breeds today carry Belgian lineage in their bloodlines.
Through the years many of the purebred studs have been shown & exported to countries all over Europe to enhance draft bloodlines. The official studbook was established in 1885.
Until the beginning of the 20th century there were three types, although they varied little in confirmation.
The Big Horse of the Dendre
The Colossal Horse of Mehaigne
The Grey Horse of Nivelles
Modern Belgian Draft
The foundation of the Belgian Draft was the Brabant & until the end of WWII they were considered the same beed. After the war, the demand for draft horses declined & exports stopped. The Brabant in Europe was selectively bred to be squat & thick. The American bloodlines differ considerably, they are taller, more refined & are almost invariably chestnut with a flaxen mane & tail.
Features
From 15.3 – 17.3 hands
Built solid for hard work
Exceptionally strong and hardworking
Physique
Head is light & square, profile is straight or slightly concave
Neck is short & muscular
Back is short & broad
Body is deep & short
Legs are strong, lean & sound with some feathering
Traditional Colors:
Chestnut (often displaying the Mealy / Pangare gene)
Roan | black | bay
Temperament
Docile & willing
Use
Still used for agricultural work
Agriculture work
Show horse
Draft competitions
Pleasure horse
Wagon horses
Meat
Helpful Links
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Belgian Draft Horse Corporation of America
Canadian Belgian Horse Association
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