Characteristics of the Clydesdale Horse

The outstanding characteristics of the Clydesdale Horse are a combination of weight, size and activity, and what is looked for first and last by a Clydesdale enthusiast is the exceptional wearing qualities of feet and limbs.

The feet must be round and open with hoof heads wide and springy,

The horse must have action, but not exaggerated, the inside of every shoe being made visible to anyone walking behind.

The forelegs must be well under the shoulders, not carried bulldog fashion, and in fact must hang straight from shoulder to fetlock joint, with no openness at the knee, yet with no inclination to knock.

The hind legs must be similar, with the points of the hocks turned inwards rather than outwards, and the pasterns must be long.

Distinctive long, silky hair below the knees and hocks draw attention to the stylish lifting of the feet at the trot.
The head must have an open forehead, broad across the eyes, the front of the face must be flat, neither dished nor roman, wide muzzle, large nostrils and a bright, clear, intelligent eye.

A well-arched and long neck must spring out of an oblique shoulder with high withers, while the back should be short, with well-sprung ribs, and, as befits a draught horse, the thighs must be packed with muscle and sinew.

The most common colours in the Clydesdale breed are bay, black and brown. Roans (solid body colour with white hairs throughout the coat) are also seen with some occasional chestnuts.

White is seen on the face and legs with white often running into the body. The show ring does not discriminate on colour with light roans and horses with dark legs being considered equally with horses of the more solid colours and traditional markings.

It is claimed that the Clydesdale Horse possess, quality and weight, without displaying grossness and bulk, this is largely true.

They are certainly active movers for their size and weight, and in consequence, are very popular in many cities and on numerous farms.

The Clydesdale generally stands from 16 to 18 hands, and weighs from 1700 to 2000 pounds. Some of the mature stallions and geldings are taller and weigh up to 2200 pounds.

Temperament of the Clydesdale Horse

The Clydesdale horse is lively and intelligent with good temperament, they are truly the gentle giants of the horse world, suitable to excel in any field.

Current uses of the Clydesdale Horse include: