Horses are beloved animals all around the world, and some of the most popular breeds are those that are larger than average. Big horses are prized for their strength and beauty, and they make excellent mounts for both recreational and competitive riders. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most popular breeds of big horses, and explain why they are so highly sought after.
What is a Big Horse?
A big horse is generally considered to be any horse that stands taller than 15 hands, with one hand measuring 4 inches. A horse that stands 16 hands or taller can be considered a large horse, while horses standing 17 hands or taller are considered extra-large or draft horses. Draft horses are typically used for heavier work such as pulling carriages or plowing fields.
Popular Breeds of Big Horses
There are many breeds of big horses to choose from. Some of the most popular include the following:
Shire Horse
The Shire Horse is a draft horse native to England. It is one of the largest breeds in the world, with an average height of 17 hands, and some individuals growing even taller. It has a thick, muscular body and a gentle temperament, making it an ideal mount for amateur riders. The Shire Horse is also an excellent working animal, and it is still used for plowing and heavy labor in some areas.
Clydesdale Horse
The Clydesdale is another popular breed of big horse. It is native to Scotland and was developed as a draft horse in the 19th century. The Clydesdale has a strong, muscular body and an average height of 17 hands. It is known for its gentle temperament and willingness to work, making it a popular choice for recreational riders. The Clydesdale is also still used for heavy work in some areas.
Belgian Draft Horse
The Belgian Draft Horse is a large workhorse that originated in Belgium in the 19th century. It is known for its strength and stamina, as well as its good nature. The Belgian Draft Horse typically stands between 16 and 18 hands high, making it one of the largest breeds in the world. It is still used for heavy work in many parts of Europe.
Percheron Horse
The Percheron is a French draft horse that was originally bred to pull carriages and plow fields. It has an average height of 17 hands and a strong, muscular body. The Percheron is known for its intelligence and willingness to work, making it a popular choice for recreational riders. It is still used for heavy labor in some areas.
Suffolk Punch Horse
The Suffolk Punch Horse is a British draft horse that was developed in Suffolk, England in the 19th century. It typically stands between 16 and 17 hands high, with a strong, muscular body. The Suffolk Punch Horse is known for its gentle temperament and willingness to work, making it an excellent mount for amateur riders. It is still used for heavy labor in some areas.
Why Choose a Big Horse?
Big horses have many advantages over smaller breeds. For starters, they have more strength and stamina than smaller breeds, allowing them to handle more strenuous activities such as plowing fields or pulling carriages. In addition, they can carry heavier loads than smaller horses, making them ideal mounts for larger riders. Big horses also tend to have calmer temperaments than smaller breeds, making them easier to manage.
Finally, big horses have an impressive presence that can’t be matched by smaller breeds. Whether you’re riding for pleasure or competing in events such as dressage or show jumping, a big horse will always stand out from the crowd.
Where to Find Big Horses?
If you’re looking for a big horse to ride or work with, there are several places you can look. Local stables or farms may have big horses available for sale or lease, while online marketplaces such as DreamHorse, HorseClicks, or EquineNow. offer listings from all over the country.
Tip: Make sure to do your research before buying or leasing any horse – read up on the breed you’re interested in and talk to experienced owners or trainers who can give you advice.
To Sum-it Up
Big horses are impressive animals that are beloved by both recreational and competitive riders alike. Whether you’re looking for a mount to take on leisurely rides or something more strenuous such as plowing fields or pulling carriages, there are several popular breeds of big horses to choose from. Just remember to do your research before committing to any horse – read up on the breed you’re interested in and talk to experienced owners or trainers who can give you advice.