The oldest of all draft breeds, the European Brabant has been known by many names over the centuries. Once called the Flanders Horse, Dutch Draft and Brabander, the horse known today as the European Brabant has the same basic personality and physical characteristics as it did 2,000 years ago when Julius Caesar mentioned the breed in his diaries and when King John of England imported 100 studs to his private livery in 1199 AD.

Thanks to the efforts of those who cherish this breed, the European Brabant is still part of the horse world. Though rare (the Livestock Conservancy is currently studying them for possible inclusion on its critical list), the breed is still valued by those who appreciate its massive strength, kind disposition and fascinating history.

U.S. Preservation

Known in Europe as the Belgian Draft Horse, the European Brabant was first imported to America in the 1880s. Over time, American breeders began breeding for a lighter draft horse, and the American Belgian became distinctly different from the European strain. Today in the U.S., the Belgian and the European Brabant are two completely separate breeds.

In an effort to preserve the ancient European Brabant, breeders and enthusiasts in the U.S. and Canada recently banded together to form the European Brabant Registry of America (EBRA). Since its founding in October 2021, the EBRA has concentrated its efforts on preservation by establishing the European Brabant and Brabant Stock Studbooks, as well as the critical “Breed Up”  Program, which is designed to expand the breed’s gene pool.

The EBRA also offers draft horse educational clinics to the general public as a means of promoting the positive attributes of all heavy horse breeds. Ultimately, the EBRA wants to ensure the original gentle giant—the European Brabant—and its descendants remain intact for future generations. 

Across the globe, European Brabants are still hard at work in a myriad of jobs. Because they are such strong and tractable work horses, they are still active in the timber and farming industries. They also work chest-deep in water, dragging fishing nets and pulling barges next to canals in Europe. 

In the U.S., European Brabants are often ridden. They are used in equine therapy programs, backcountry packing and trekking outfits, as school horses, and in dressage and show jumping. They also compete in single and teams driving, vaulting and circus acts.

European Brabant Breed Facts

◆ Height: 15 to 18 hands; average is 16.2 hands

◆ Color: Chestnut, bay, black, blue roan, red roan, strawberry roan, bay roan and gray. Some white markings on the face and legs are permitted. 

◆ Overall Appearance: Balanced and slightly rectangular in shape; ample, robust leg bone and a double-muscled hindquarter with a wide, long, slightly sloped croup. Well-muscled neck and a straight profile with a proud head carriage. The head should appear slightly smaller and refined for a horse of such large proportions. The eye is large and kind.

◆ Association: European Brabant Registry of America

Key Takeaway

According to those who love this breed, European Brabants are much more than draft animals; they are loving companions who want nothing more than to be with their humans, whether it’s on the trail under saddle or cuddling in the pasture.

This article appeared in the April 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Breed Profile: European Brabant appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Shire

First up is the Shire, a breed that truly deserves the title of the biggest horse. Hailing from England, these majestic giants typically stand between 16 and 18 hands, with some exceptional individuals soaring past the 19-hand mark. Known for their gentle disposition and incredible strength, Shires were historically used for heavy draft work. Today, many Shires play vital roles in therapeutic programs, proving that the biggest horses can also have the largest hearts.

Clydesdale

Next on our list is the iconic Clydesdale. When most people think of the biggest horses, these Scottish beauties come to mind. Standing between 16 and 18 hands tall, their distinct bay coats, white markings, and feathered legs make them easily recognizable. Originally bred for agricultural work, Clydesdales have become cultural icons, especially through their famous association with Budweiser.

Belgian

Among the biggest horses, the Belgian is another standout. Typically measuring between 16 and 17 hands tall, these muscular horses were bred for farm work and are known for their calm demeanor. Often weighing in at over 2,000 pounds, they embody the term “gentle giant” and make wonderful family companions as well as hard-working farmhands.

Percheron

Bringing a touch of elegance to the list, the Percheron is a French breed that generally stands between 16 and 18 hands tall and can weigh up to an astounding 2,600 pounds. Known for their versatility, Percherons excel in various disciplines, from draft work to riding. Their calm nature and strong build make them favorites among horse enthusiasts looking for a reliable partner.

Suffolk Punch

Don’t let its lesser-known status fool you, the Suffolk Punch is a true giant among the biggest horses. Typically standing between 16 and 17 hands, these sturdy, chestnut beauties are recognized for their heavy build and friendly demeanor. Originally bred for agricultural work, they shine in various equestrian activities today, showcasing their remarkable strength and adaptability.

Boulonnais

Meet the Boulonnais, a hidden gem in the world of big horses. This French breed, often called the White Marble Horse, stands between 15 and 17 hands and is known for its agility and strength. While they may not be as widely recognized, their impressive size and versatile capabilities make them extremely valuable to any equestrian program.

Australian Draught

The Australian Draught is a versatile breed that stands between 16 and 17.2 hands tall.  Originally developed for heavy draft work, this draft evolved from crossbreeding four of the above breeds—the Shire, Clydesdale, Percheron and Suffolk Punch—after those horses were imported into Australia. To this day, these sturdy horses are recognized for their adaptability and excellent temperament.

Brabant

Renowned for its immense strength and solid build, the Brabant is a significant contender among the largest horse breeds. Typically measuring between 15.2 and 17 hands tall, this Belgian breed is not only notable for its size but also for its gentle temperament and versatility in various equestrian activities.

American Cream Draft

While the American Cream Draft may not be the tallest breed on our list, it is among the biggest in terms of weight and overall build. Typically standing between 15 and 16.3 hands high and weighing between 1,600 and 1,800 pounds, these horses are cherished for their impressive strength and distinctive creamy coat. Originating in the United States, the American Cream Draft is known for its gentle temperament, making them ideal companions for families and suitable for various work and leisure activities.

Jutland

Finally, we have the Jutland, named for the Jutland Peninsula in the breed’s home country of Denmark. Typically chestnut in color, the Jutland only stands between 15 and 16.1 hands high but is so powerfully muscular that the breed weights anywhere from 1,400 and 1,860 pounds. Originally used for hauling brewery wagons, these big horses are known for a gentle, willing temperament.

The Legacy of the Biggest Horses in the World

From the majestic Shire to the iconic Clydesdale, each horse on this list has carved out significant roles in agriculture, sport, and companionship. These giants remind us that horses, regardless of size, share a common bond with humans. They are not just athletes, but partners in life. As the equine world continues to grow, the legacy of these biggest horses will endure, inspiring future generations of horse lovers and riders.

This article about the biggest horse breeds in the world is a web exclusive for Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post The 10 Biggest Horses: Giants of the Equine World appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.