Top 5 Largest Horse Breeds 2024
One of the things that really jumped out at me when I got interested in this whole horse dealing, was just how BIG some of the largest breeds are.
These are large horses and not only in size, but also in character, the noble tribe of giants with a great history.
In this post I will tell you my top 5 largest horse breeds with their stories and of course my pros and cons to each and what a trick or two that might come in handy if you are looking into one yourself.
5. Suffolk Punch Horse
This is my favourite breed, they may not be as popular as the others but I love them because there history. It is a breed that been bred in England for over 500 years, invariably they are horses famed for being such hard-working beasts out on the field.
I find that their squat build is much more nimble than some of the taller breeds-items.
- Height: 16 to 17 hands
- Weight: 1,900 to 2,200 pounds
Pros
- Reliable and hardworking, they are great for anyone who requires a tough workhorse.
- They are so laid back and easy going, perfect for beginners.
- Being a bit smaller they are quicker on their feet than some of the other draft breeds.
Cons
- It can be a little difficult to find them. They’re not as widely available.
- They need tons of food and require lots of space, like any giant breed.
- They need a lot of exercise as well; it would be hard for them to stay healthy all cooped up inside nestled near their family.
4. Percheron Horse
The Percheron has always been the best of both worlds… strength and class. This breed is from France, and it was used as a warhorse as wells as being use for farm work.
What I love most about them is how versatile they are — not only are they strong, but also agile and graceful.
- Height: 15 to 18 hands
- Weight: 1,900 to 2,100 pounds
Pros
- They are very multipurpose in that they can work and ride for example, both.
- Given that Percherons are very easy to train, they seem like the perfect horse for a lot of owners.
- They do have a bit less feather on the legs, making them easier to keep than Clydesdales.
Cons
- They can be a little resistant to work with, especially if you are a novice horse handler.
- They need plenty of room to flourish as well as food like the other breeds .
- Because of their large size, they need special equipment.
3. Belgian Horse
Belgian horse is a draft horse and the history of this breed is older than any. it dates back to the medieval era, when they were bred in Belgium for farming as well as heavy work.
I have a special fondness for Belgians and admire their strength and stamina — those horses can work a field all day long! They’re durable and square, a workhorse for anyone who needs it.
- Height: 16 to 18 hands
- Weight: 1,800 to 2,200 pounds
Pros
- They are capable of working for long hours on end.
- They way they are so nice and relaxed, is something that I love about Belgians.
- Certainly, easier than to train with some other large breeds.
Cons
- Their sheer size can also wear on their joints and require maintenance.
- They eat a lot of food and water, which means that you have to pay for them also.
- Part of the difficulty with prospector-sized gear is that it is large.
2. Clydesdale Horse
The Clydesdale is one of the most popular large horse breeds and I always find them to be a sight for sore eyes. Originally bred in Scotland during the 18th century as heavy farm horses to pull carts.
Now they are known around the world, being used in parades and commercials (who wouldn’t love those Budweiser ads). You can spot them a mile a way thanks to their beak-like faces, feathered legs and Godzilla-sized height.
- Height: 16 to 18 hands
- Weight: 1,800 to 2,000 pounds
Pros
- Giant Clydesdales are gentle giants so loving and friendly.
- You will definitely want to put them to work they are really strong.
- Their feathers on their legs are my favourite, which looks absolutely beautiful for parades or shows.
Cons
- They are high maintenance when it comes to upkeep of their legs
- Being giant, they are huge eaters – thus pocketbook ponders.
- This breed is a large one and it will need some space in your yard, so if you have a small property this may not be the best choice.
1. Shire Horse
The largest horse breed in the world, at one time I became more interested in Shire. A sizeable heritage of these noble behemoths is from England, with usage in the Medieval period for the transportation of knights who were armoured. Eventually, they were used in tandem to haul heavy loads such as beer wagons and plows.
- Height: 17 to 19 hands
- Weight: 1,800 to 2,400 pounds
Pros
- Shire horses are VERY strong and able to pull really heavy loads.
- They are calm and mellow in temperament, as if they were simply big ol’ sweethearts.
- They are big, very powerful looking things — they make a strong impression.
Cons
- They are costly to take care of, particularly when it comes to feeding them.
- Inexperienced owners may find them more difficult to handle due to their size.
- They require a lot of space to run which is not always appealing or even practical for everyone.
Conclusion
I have always loved big horse breeds because of their strength, gentle nature, and legacy. Owning one of these horses is a big commitment – they eat A TON and also need plenty of room to run or they can develop health problems — but if you’re up for it, they are worth every bit as much work as they require.
