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Shire Horse
These enormous horses have a gentle nature and are exceptionally strong and willing.
Height
16 to 18 HH
Colour
Black, brown, bay and grey.
Conformation
- Well proportioned head with a big kind eye. The ears and nostrils are a good size. The nose slightly curves outwards.
- The neck is long, muscular and well set on.
- The withers are broad as is the back which is also very strong.
- The hindquarters are well rounded and powerful.
- The limbs are fairly long with large joints.
- The tail is low set and both the mane and tail are dense.
- The shoulders are sloping and powerful.
- The hooves are large and the lower limbs are white and densely feathered.
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History
In 1878 the Old English Cart Horse Society was formed, 6 years later this name was changed to the Shire Horse Society.
Their great strength and size enabled them to be used in mediaeval times as a war horses as they could easily carry all the armour and would of been quite an impressive sight. Later on they were used on the canals and for working the land as well as in towns for deliveries such as beer and coal.
Uses
- Working the land
- Working in the forest
- Showing
- Draught work
Famous Fact
The tallest horse of recent times was called Goliath and reached a staggering 19.11 and a half HH. He was born in 1977 and died at a respectable 24 years of age. He had worked for the Young and Co Brewery as one of a team of show horses.
The Shire Horse Society
The society offers information for owners, breeders and enthusiasts of this wonderful breed of horse.
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