Clydesdale Working Horse

The Clydesdale horse breed is best known for its size, over 18 hands, about six-feet and the feather above the hooves. This long hair covering their ankles makes this breed easily recognizable and it is thought the feather was developed during the first breedings with the Fleming and English Breeds. This feather, a thick mane and heavy coat helped the breed survive in the Scottish climate.

Intelligent eyes peer from the Clydesdale horse breed’s large head with small ears a deep chest and heavy bone structure in the shoulders. Growing to over 2,000 pounds and having a high wither; this large beast is also known for its grace. With a seemingly eager gait, this horse always presents a positive attitude as it raises it feet cleanly from the ground before continuing with a long stride.

Coloring of the Clydesdale horse breed varies from different shades of bay, brown, chestnut and black, predominantly with one solid color, often with a white underbelly as well as a white feather. Although horses with black legs may sometimes also offer a black feather. Originally developed for protection against harsh weather, the feather is manly for show.

Horses with a white muzzle typically have black spots around the chin and lips and a white mask usually covers the face. White feet may extend up to merge with the white underbelly, they can also end at the top of the feather. Another characteristic of the Clydesdale horse breed are black and white striped hooves.

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