Clydesdale Horse

Intro

Considered the pride of Scotland, the Clydesdale is a heavy draft breed native to Lanarkshire in Scotland (the districy used to be called Clydesdale).

Origins

Originating in the middle of the 18th century, when Flemish stallions were imported with the goal of producing more robust animals out of local stock. The first stallion was imported by the Sixth Duke of Hamilton. He was brown or bay and the Duke allowed his tenants to cover their mares free of charge. Another influential stallion was one purchased by John Paterson of Lochlyloch, he was black with what sounds like Sabino white markings. This animal made a name for the Clydesdale branch out of Lochlyloch.

Before long the lineage of this breed changed to more dam focused and centers on a filly purchased in Carstairs in 1808 who is essentially a grandmother to the breed. She was thought to be a descendant of the Lochlyloch line and produced a plack colt called Thompson’s Black Horse (or Glancer), Farmers Fancy and Glancer I. All three of which are believed to have given rise to the handsome Clydesdale type we know today.

Scotland reached its peak draft horse production early in the 20th century, exporting animals as their popularity grew outside the border. During WWI Clydesdale horses were conscripted, although in WWII the rise of mechanical power saw their need decline. This trend continued into the late 20th century when they were listed as vulnerable. Today the DAD-IS lists them as critical and as of 2021 there were only 169 left.

Features

Average height 17-18 hands
Renown for high-stepping leg action made all the flashier by their dramatic feathering
Longer hind legs than most draft breeds

Physique

Handsome head with straight profile and broad forehead
Eyes are bright and clear
Ears are large
Long, crested neck
Shoulder is oblique
High withers
Back is strong
Hindquarters are long and muscular
Long, well formed legs
Silky feather on backs of legs
High quality feet, flat and open, now more suited for walking hard surfaces than plowing