Intro
Also called Lietuvos Sunkieji, the Lithuanian Heavy Draft comes from Lithuania and is one of the more handsome of the draft breeds.
Origins
Breeding began late in the 19th century by crossing Zhumd animals with Arabian, Ardennes, Brabancon and Shire bloodlines. The result was a heavy draft of a hardy size, but well proportioned and handsome. Not just about looks, they were also ‘easy keepers’ that could sustain on little food.
A studbook was established in 1951 and the breed recognized. So good were the animals they were used to develop and improve breeds in neighboring countries. In 1997, Zhumd and Heavy Draft breeders formed an alliance, working together to preserve the bloodlines of heavy breeds in the country. According to the DAD-IS they are endangered and as of 2023 there were 2454 left.
Features
Average height 15 – 16 hands
Physique
Head is coarse and large
Neck is short and muscular
Back is long and can be dipped
Legs are solid and well set
Traditional Colors
chestnut | black | bay | grey | roan | flaxen
Temperament
Kind and willing
Use
Farm work
Heavy draft
Improving other breeds
Meat production
Helpful Links
Lithuanian National Stud
Animal Science Institute, Lithuanian Farm Animal Genetic Resources Conservation Coordinating Centre
Lithuanian Heavy Draft Horse Breeders Association
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