Intro
Also called New Cleveland Bay, the Yorkshire Coach Horse is a variety of the Cleveland Bay breed that was given an infusion of Thoroughbred blood early in the 19th century. Later they were reabsorbed into the main studbook
Origins
The addition of Thoroughbred blood was expected to create a faster horse for the newly improved roads of England. The result was an animal that resembled a Cleveland Bay, but was taller, with finer bones and not as likely to have a convex nose. While the breed is considered extinct today, their bloodlines live on in the Cleveland Bay breed itself.
There is some debate about whether the Yorkshire was it’s own breed, or simply an offshoot of Cleveland Bays. They were not bred for long and often breeders used animals that were already crosses. In the UK a studbook was created in 1886 and kept separate until 1936. In North America a second stud book was never established for the coach type.
During their heyday they were well loved and exported all over the world. Their handsome conformation and consistent coloring making them perfect for matching teams.
Features
Average height 16-16.5 hands
Physique
Large head with straight or slightly convex profile
Long, well-muscled neck
Broad, deep chest
Sloped, muscular shoulders
Legs are short and sturdy
Traditional Colors
bay or brown with black markings
Temperament
High energy and intelligent
Hardy and dependable
Use
Carriage horse