History of the Irish Draught Horse

The Irish Draught Horse was created by crossing the Thoroughbred with Irish mares and was used for agricultural work, carriage driving and hunting. The agricultural recession in 1879 caused a decline in Irish Draught Horse numbers. In 1904 the Department of Agriculture Committee on Horse Breeding introduced a subsidy scheme to approved stallions of Irish Draught and Hunter type and this resulted in the Irish Draught Horse that is known today. In 1917 an Irish Draught Stud book was created and 44 stallions were registered. The Irish Draught Horse Society was formed in 1976 and the Irish Draught is today valued for producing competition horses and hunters.

Height of the Irish Draught Horse

The Irish Draught Horse is 15 to 17 hh.

Colour of the Irish Draught Horse

The Irish Draught Horse is Bay, grey, brown or chestnut.

Characteristics of the Irish Draught Horse

The Irish Draught Horse has a short thick neck, long body and powerful hindquarters. It is strong and active, and an excellent jumper.

Temperament of the Irish Draught Horse

The Irish Draught Horse is quiet, sensible, alert and willing.

Uses of the Irish Draught Horse

The Irish Draught Horse is primarily used for hunting and riding. Irish Draught-Thoroughbred crosses make excellent competition horses.