Facts About Clydesdale Horses

The Clydesdale is the name of a breed of horse that originated in the district of Clydesdale in Scotland, the United Kingdom. The draft horse is notable for its vast stature and extreme strength. The Clydesdale has a long work horse history, but it also commonly seen as a family horse, as well.

  1. History

    • The draft horse breed comes from Scotland and was established by the farmers in Lanarkshire. The breed was made for both commercial transportation and agricultural purposes, and began to appear all over Scotland and then slowly throughout the northern region of England, as well. In 1877, the Clydesdale Horse Society emerged. During the 1800s, Clydesdales also served as war horses for the purpose of carrying big objects.

    Appearance

    • Newborn Clydesdales typically weigh in at around 125 pounds. On average, male Clydesdales weigh between 1,700 and 2,200 pounds, while female Clydesdales weigh 1,500 to 2,000 pounds. In terms of coloring, the horses are usually brown, black, chestnut or bay. White markings are common on the legs and face of the breed. Facially, Clydesdales have big nostrils, broad muzzles and arched and long necks. The horses have flat hooves, muscular and sinewy thighs and short backs.

    Health

    • In general, Clydesdale horses can live into their 20s. As for health, one common condition that occasionally afflicts Clydesdale is known as pododermatitis ("scratches"). The inflammatory disorder arises when horses spend an extended period of time in an environment that is moist and damp.

    Traits

    • Clydesdale horses are noteworthy for their active, lively and energetic dispositions. Other traits that are associated with Clydesdales include smarts, gentleness and patience.

    Modern Tasks

    • Clydesdale horses are well-known internationally for their uses in advertising campaigns created by Budweiser. The horses are often referred to by the name "Budweiser Clydesdales." Apart from advertising uses, Clydesdale horses frequently make appearances in heavy horse showings and other types of horse competitions. Clydesdales also sometimes can be seen performing heavy labor on traditional farms that are old fashioned and do not rely on modern machinery.