Shires
This particular breed is known for breaking records and all sorts but what is the history behind them and why are they so incredible? Read below:
The shire is a British breed of draught horse. It is known for its height and strength and holding records for being the tallest horse in the world. They are similar to the Clydesdale and have large hooves and feathering legs as well as being absolutely massive!
Shire stallions easily stand at around 17hh, geldings 17hh and mares around 16.2hh.
Shires are gentle giants. In contrast to their impressive appearance, they are very gentle. They are rather suitable for any ability rider because they have a brilliant work ethic.
You will usually find a shire horse has either a bay, black, chestnut, brown, or grey coat.
Unfortunately, this breed of equine is classed as rare and endangered with an estimated breed population of less than 2,000 horses worldwide. The number quickly declined when machinery was used and they were no longer needed for farm work as much, although are still used today for the role.
To prove how incredible they are, in 1924 a pair of Shires pulled almost 50 tons (100,000 pounds)! The average Shire alone can pull around 25 tons.
Nowadays, they often are used in driving events, sometimes dressage, a bit of jumping and still farm work.
I hope you liked learning a bit about the Shire horse. Let me know what you thought of it in the comments and like it if you did. Subscribe as it is free and follow my Instagram for regular notifications since I am active on their daily. You are welcome to emailing me blog suggestions to: admin@theequesdtrianblogger.co.uk. Stick around for the next one. See you then...
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The Equestrian Blogger
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