Work Horses- How Do They Differ from Show Horses

Draft horses are often thought of as the classic workhorse. By definition this means that the horse has been adapted for drawing heavy loads. Sometimes workhorses are also described as dray horses or draught horses. A workhorse is not always breed specific, but the description is often used for any breed of horse that is physically suited to pulling heavy loads. As you probably know, there is a big difference between the workhorse and the show horse.

Here is a brief overview of the workhorse. The Draft horse comes from Europe, and it is thought to precede the invasion of the Romans. There are many popular breeds that have traditionally been known as workhorses. These include Shire, Percheron, Belgian and the Clydesdale horses. These classic workhorses are large and known for their endurance, strength and good disposition.

The Belgian horse is perhaps one of the most popular workhorses and a long history of pure European descent, becoming most popular during the Middle Ages. As its name implies, the breed was exported from Belgium and into many European countries between the 15th and 16th centuries. The Belgian horse was imported into the United States in the 1880s. It was slow to gain favor because of its large and slightly cumbersome appearance. This horse is known for its barrel-like, burly appearance and its coat, which is normally chestnut or sorrel in color. This popular workhorse stands about 17 hands or 68 inches and weighs in at over 2,000 pounds.

The Clydesdale is a workhorse favorite that comes from Scotland. This breed is often compared to the Shire horse, although it’s not quite that heavy. The Clydesdale is characterized by its springy and graceful step. Clydesdales became very popular due to their good disposition. Tradesmen who used them to transport commercial goods have also favored them. The Clydesdale is a favorite of today’s horse enthusiasts who appreciate the beauty of this horse. Clydesdales have white markings on the face and legs, a lavish feathering around the fetlocks and average a height of roughly 16 hands or 64 inches. They are known to weigh in at around 1,800 pounds.

Another breed of draft horse that was developed in North Western France is the Percheron, of Flemish origin with some Arabian horse blood. The Percheron is a very heavy horse but still has a considerable amount of stamina and is a very good trotter. Armored knights and general freight labor used this horse in the Middle Age. This was once considered the most popular draft horse in America, famous for its natural beauty. Percheron coats are nearly always gray or black in color. These horses stand just over 16 hands in height or 64 inches and weigh in at least 2,000 pounds.

Another large powerful draft horse is the Shire breed. They closely resemble the Clydesdale in size, weight and height and originate from central England. They are known for having long lustrous hair that grows from knee to hock.

Many horse lovers prefer the show horse, although the workhorse continues to remain viable. Show horses are very different than the average workhorse. The breed standards of show horses strive to produce the best athletic horse. The most desirable traits of a show horse may include:

1. Motion: A show horse must demonstrate visible power and balance from the hindquarters. The front legs should demonstrate extension and flexibility.

2. Neck: A show horse has a high neck on the shoulder. These horses have a fine throatlatch and are shapely without a pronounced crest.

3. Head: A show horse has a short and small head with large eyes and small ears. The facial profile should be straight or concave.

4. Withers: The withers are to be pronounced, with a very deep and laid back shoulder.

5. Proportionate: A level top line with a proportionate hip.

6. Legs: Straight and correct.

7. Bone structure: A refined structure throughout, especially in the girth, chest, shoulders and hips.

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