History of the Shire Horse

The Shire horse is the largest of England's native horses and was used mainly as a draught and horse. The Cart Horse Society (later to become the Shire Horse Society) was setup in 1878 to improve the breed. The Shire Horse was also used in weight pulling contests. Mechanisation resulted in a decline in numbers but the Shire Horse is still popular at shows and with brewers for work within cities.

Height of the Shire Horse

The Shire Horse stands 16.2 to 18 hh.

Colour of the Shire Horse

The Shire Horse is bay, brown, black or grey with plenty of white on the legs and feet.

Characteristics of the Shire Horse

Broad forehead with large eyes with a slightly roman nose, thick neck, muscular body, lots of feather on legs. Able to pull considerable loads.

Temperament of the Shire Horse

The Shire Horse is docile, gentle and hard working.

Uses of the Shire Horse

The Shire Horse is used for agricultural work, and as draught horse and show horse.