Shire
The Shire is a distinguished breed of draft horse renowned for its impressive size, strength, and gentle demeanor. Originating from England, it is often considered one of the largest horse breeds in the world, with geldings standing between 17 to 19 hands high, and some reaching weights of over a ton. The Shire is characterized by its muscular build, broad shoulders, and deep chest, which contribute to its exceptional pulling power, historically used in agriculture and for hauling heavy loads, including brewery wagons.
These heavy horses are easily recognizable by their distinctive features: a noble head with large, kind eyes, a wide-set nose, and long, dense feathering on their lower legs, which accentuates their substantial hooves. The breed's coat comes in a variety of solid colors, predominantly black, bay, and grey, often marked with white face and leg markings.
Despite their formidable size, Shires are renowned for their calm and amiable temperament, making them popular not only for work but also for riding and driving. They are admired in show rings for their grace and strength, often showcased in pulling competitions and traditional events. The Shire’s gentle nature, coupled with its impressive physical attributes, make it a favorite among breeds for those seeking a reliable and majestic draft horse.
Colors: Black, Bay, Brown, Gray, Roan
