* Horse breeding is about lineage: Breeds are established through generations of selective breeding for specific traits. A Shire horse is a draft breed, while a Morgan horse is a light horse. They have significantly different body types, temperaments, and purposes.
* Crossbreeding: While you *can* breed a Shire and a Morgan, the resulting offspring wouldn't be a "new breed." It would be a crossbreed. Crossbreeds inherit traits from both parents, resulting in a unique individual.
* Predictability: The characteristics of a crossbreed are not guaranteed. You might get a horse with a Shire-like body but a Morgan-like temperament, or vice versa. It's unpredictable.
What to expect from a Shire/Morgan crossbreed:
* Size: The foal would likely be larger than a Morgan but smaller than a Shire.
* Temperament: It could inherit the calm, docile nature of a Shire or the spirited personality of a Morgan, or a combination of both.
* Appearance: The foal's coat color, markings, and overall appearance would be a mix of both parents' traits.
Is crossbreeding desirable?
It depends on the purpose. Some people might be interested in the unique traits and qualities a crossbreed can offer. However, it's important to consider:
* Limited predictability: You won't know exactly what you'll get.
* Breed standards: Crossbreeds don't meet the breed standards of either parent breed.
* Purpose: Crossbreeds might not be suited for specific disciplines that require specific breed traits.
If you're interested in a specific horse type, consider researching established breeds that match your needs and preferences.