Maria Heusdain

Maria Heusdain breeds Shire horses across the USA and in the Midwest near Chicago. She has dedicated more than a decade to developing strong, gentle heavy horses and maintains membership in the American Shire Horse Society, with routine veterinary checkups, health screenings, and genetic testing for hereditary conditions.

On her family farm, foals and broodmares live in spacious pastures with daily turnout and shaded shelters, while mature stallions have access to individual paddocks. Early socialization begins at birth through calm, consistent handling and gradual exposure to farm routines, which helps horses adapt to riders and draft work. Nutrition is overseen by an equine specialist, following rotational grazing and tailored feed plans to support growth and sound conformation.

Several of her Shire horses have appeared at regional draft horse shows, earning praise for clean movement, solid bone structure, and steady dispositions. Clients note the horses’ calm natures, reliable temperaments, and well-rounded training built on patient groundwork.