Shire Horse vs. Percheron: Breed Comparison 2024

Two of the first breeds that are considered to be draft horses are often the Shire vs Percheron. Each breed is famous for being massive in size and strength, but they also have distinct characteristics that come alongside their respective histories.

As a horse lover on the other hand, it is interesting to put both of these amazing breeds together so let us….

Key Takeaways

• The best-known feature of the Shire Horse is its great height and lengthy feather on its lower leg.
• Percherons are known for being rather versatile gentle giants which can excel in a wide range of disciplines.
• Knowing the differences between their histories, characteristics & civilities can serve everyone when making a decision on which type of horse is right for you!

History and Origins

Shire Horse

The Shire Horse is a breed of British farm horse that has its heritage in medieval England. These large horses have been specifically bred for size and strength, beginning in the 16th century, to help with heavy farm work and freight hauling.

Ever since I read about their history as a working breed and heath-land managers I have been captivated by English pointers.

Shires have historically been known for their height– typically land somewhere in the 16.2 to 18-hand range — as well as the feathering they display on their legs. I like how it softens some of the ruggedness in their strong appearance!

Percheron

Whereas the Percheron is From France, The Le Perche region to be exact. Originally bred from war horses during the Middle Ages, these animals kept for the pulling of ploughs are tall to accommodate larger heads and neck musculature as well as being able to pull more weight up hill.

It is amazing to think that the Percheron evolved from such versatile beginnings — a horse sturdy enough to pull a plow and with presence enough to be worthy of nobility.

Percheron height are usually 15.2–17.3 hands, and can often be Grey or Black (however only 10% of the breed carries a black gene). They are more muscular sports in nature with a powerful, athletic build that enables them to participate in various equestrian fields but not limited to pulling carriages or competing at dressage.

Breed Characteristics

Size and Build

Their size and build, alone, are one of the most noticeable points of divergence between the Shire and Percheron. Shires are generally taller and heavier; some horses in these breed types can tip the scales at more than 2,000 pounds. I love that he’s a force to reckon with simply due to his size, presence in any room.

Percherons are also Clydesdale-like in size, but slightly leaner and more agile. With weights averaging between 1,800 to 2,200 pounds they are usually a more fine-boned horse. The athleticism this pours into them allows for the agility of a cat while remaining strong enough to pull heavy loads.

Colours and Markings

Most Shire Horses are bay, black or gray in colour and the feathering on their legs makes for a striking contrast with their body coats. Feathering is one of their features that I find particularly beautiful about this breed.

The Percheron: While percherons can come any colour, they are most frequently a beautiful black or gray with almost a silver shine. This elegance is captivating, and I have always envied how they flash their colours in the show ring.

Temperament and Personality

Shire Horse

Shire Horses… tend to be large, but in my experience are also often gentle giants. They are these type of breeds who get along so well and are best to keep as a companion.

Both beginner and expert riders will love that these animals are usually easygoing and willing to work. Their loyalty oozes off of them, and I find myself feeling a strong attachment when they are in my presence.

Percheron

Percherons are equally friendly and willing to please, but they tend to be a bit more spirited. They can be a bit more cheeky in general then the gentle giants Shires but I do actually find they are much more fun to work with.

These horses respond to training, even enjoy it, enjoying a change of pace in their work makes lessons varied and appealing—this keeps both horse and handler engaged.

Care and Management

Diet and Nutrition

All dogs, including Yellow Lab and Golden Retriever need a balanced diet full of nutrients to ensure they remain healthy and retain the energy.

I usually feed my draft horses good hay, pasture and grains to meet their needs. We must keep an eye on all those extra pounds, as both breeds tend to get too heavy.

Health Care

Common types of CareShire and Percheron horses require routine health care. I ensure the get their regular vet check-ups, vaccinations and dental care.

They also require regular hoof care, since both breeds will need trims every six to eight weeks.

Grooming

Grooming my horses: Grooming is something more than just a maintenance task for me, it is also an experience through which I can bond with my horses.

Shires have thick, feathered legs that get dirty easily, so they need regular grooming in the areas where their feathers grow. Percherons, a less feathered breed also, still appreciate the brushing to keep their coats shiny.

Common Disciplines

Shire Horse

A purebred Shire Horses are well suited to draft work, including parades and agricultural purposes. I have watched them in doing heavy pulling contest, showing their power and endurance.

They are wonderful family horses and provide great pleasures for various activities such as leisure riding, farm work.

Percheron

Their versatility makes Percherons suitable for a number of purposes, including competition in dressage, show jumping and driving. I have seen them compete and show just how athletic and biddable these dogs are. They are often used in a range of disciplines that require their labor.

How much does a Percheron horse cost

Percheron horses are not that expensive and can cost from $1,000 to $2,500 plus. Average price to expect can be anywhere from $1,000 upwards to $10,000 or more — this will depend on those factors. Here are the factors that can affect the pricing:

Age and Health

• Foals: Percheron foals average $1,000 to $3,000 Prices will, however, differ depending on the quality of the lineage which created the foal.
• Percherons, Adult Horses: Matured healthy Percheron that are ready to be worked or ride can range anywhere from $2,500 — $10,000.
• Older Percheron: Senior horses, such as Percheron which are retired or compromised in other ways, will generally be less expensive. These could cost less than $2,000.

Training and Skills

• Percherons Without Training: Non-trained Percherons typically cost less and are probably in the range of $1,000 to $3,500.
• Riding, Farm Work and Showing Horses: Percheron that are trained for riding, farm work or showing go for anywhere from $4,000 to $10,000+. Those who have specialized training, such as pulling or dressage, are worth even more.

Bloodlines and Pedigree

• Prospect Bloodlines: Percheron with prized bloodlines from well-respected breeders can be exponentially more expensive. Pedigree Percherons can fetch prices in excess of $10,000.
• Grade Percherons: Generally at the lower price extremes, often $1,000 to $4,000 and lack a registered pedigree.

Purpose

• Work and Draft Purposes: Percheron that are bred for farm work or draft purposes usually range from $3,000 to $7,000.
• Show or Competition: Horses that are trained or bred for shows or competition are the most expensive category and can cost upwards over $10,000 due to training and conditioning.

Location and Market Demand

• Location Differences: Pricing for Percherons will vary by location and demand. If draft horses are more common to you, then prices may be through the roof.
• Market Demand: As interest in sustainable farming and Eco-friendly practices continues to rise, demand for draft breeds such as the Percheron may increase, creating additional potential for price appreciation.

How much does a Percheron horse cost, Table of Estimated Costs:

How much does a Shire horse cost

A Shire horse can cost anywhere from $1,000 up to $50,000. Most of the time it depends on the age, training level and pedigree as well as where you live.

Average Price Range Of Shire Horses Typically, Shire horses are much sought after with prices to reflect their gentile giants nature as the price of these gentle giants reflects well. Below is a breakdown of what makes up the price for a Shire horse:

Age and Health

• Foals: $2,000–$5,000 (Shire) If that’s the route you’re taking, your best bet is with young horses that may be cheaper to pick up but do take time and resources for training and growth.
• Adult Horses: Well-trained Adult Shires in good health typically cost $5,000 to $12,000. They are great companions and oftentimes their value increases with age and experience, that is if they are fit for work or riding.
• Older Shires, particularly those who are retired from work, may be less expensive ($1,500 to $4,000) based on their health status and certain requirements.

Training and Skills

• Untrained: Horses that are untrained typically have a lower price tag and average approximately $3000-$7000 for non-trained Shires. But this might come with some extra training costs.
• Ridden Horses: If the shire is trained to ride or work on a farm, their price increases significantly–generally ranging from $8,000 to $15,000 and above depending on skill level.

Pedigree and Bloodlines

• High-Quality Bloodlines: Shires bred from high-quality bloodlines or recognised by premier breeding organisations may carry a much higher price tag. These Shires all of very nice quality can command prices over $15,000.
• Non-Pedigree: Shires- without proper pedigree or before, average from $2500 to $6000.

Purpose and Use

• Work and Draft: Shires bred to work or trained for draft will usually be found in the $4,000-10,000 range (again dependent upon how much actual experience they have).
• Show and Competition: Shires that are prepared for the show ring or to pull in competition, whether it be in a contest or a demo, usually falls on the expensive end of $10,000-$20,000+

Location and Demand

• Location Prices: Shire horses can cost less in certain locations while being pricier elsewhere due to availability, demand, and costs related to breeding care.
• Market Demand: Larger and gentle breeds like shires have become more popular in recent years as consumers seek sustainable farming practices, resulting in some areas driving their prices higher.

How much does a Shire horse cost, Table of Shire Horse Costs

Ownership Considerations

Before you consider which breed of dog to pick, examine your own lifestyle and requirements. Eat sh** Both Shire Horses and Percherons needs space,time and commitment which you cannot pay for.

ARE SHIRE HORSES RIGHT FOR YOU?

If you want a big guy with the sweetest temperament, then consider the Shire Horse. They can accommodate those just starting out or looking for a pup, having among the most patient dispositions.

Is a Percheron Right for You?

The Percheron, by contrast, offers a bit more zest and the ability to do other activities. They do well in all sorts of equestrian activities & Lehman; is that a situation where buffalo won’t win?

Finding Your Ideal Horse

Deciding between a Shire Horse and a Percheron will hold different suggestions, so you are recommended to do your research to understand which one might be the best fit for you.

This a necessary step to make sure you are getting the horse for you and future partner in working towards your goals.

Researching Breeders or Rescues

No, not like that, I just mean the place you can go and you get a lot of free information about how to adopt or find some local breeders for the breed in interest. A good breeder will have a wealth of knowledge about the horse’s lineage, health and temperament.

One of the things I check when visiting breeding facility is how well animals are treated and kept. It provides me with a good understanding of the general welfare of the horses.

For example, if I am looking to adopt, I look at local rescues and shelters. There are so many awesome horses that need re-homing you can adopt a horse and probably get an older, well broke horse for way less then it would take to buy (or try to get for free) from someone needing to sell.

A lot of rescues will offer extensive behavioural evaluations on their available horses, showing you that horse has an incredible personality.

Visiting Potential Horses

Then once I have a few to narrow it down from there, the visiting of horses begins. This is by far the most enjoyable part of the process! I walk the horses around the stable loose to see how they act and when you are handling them.

I ask questions regarding their training history and whether they may have any existing health problems.

If I can, I try to test ride it. It helps me understand how the horse feels about me as a rider and whether we click personality wise. That connection between a horse and its rider is so important and I want to make sure it feels good, but most of all that I feel secure on who ever my partner may be.

Budgeting for Your Horse

Budgeting is another vital part of owning a horse. I always advise you to know costs, such as;

• Initial Purchase Price: This can vary greatly between a Shire and a Percheron, depending on age, training and pedigree.
• Feed and Supplies: Keeping your horse healthy includes costs for hay, grain, supplements, feed buckets and storage
• Vet bills…visits, vaccines, their teeth and if anything is every necessary can be quite pricey so I always put aside a certain amount for vet treatment.
• You may even say, lessons or professional training for the horse (again, those are not whitecapped waves, but shall we call them higher mountains of expense), although I will be wise to include that in my expense chart if I am not a more experienced rider already.
• Bedding and Stabling: this would include the cost of bedding if I kept my horse at home, or a place to board a facility.

Final Thoughts

Other Requirements Of Shire Horse Vs Percheron Choosing a Shire Horse or Percheron over the other is not just about one that you prefer, but which one suits your lifestyle and what you want in horse riding. They are both beautiful breeds but each have special qualities.

Throughout my lifelong love of horses, I have found that understanding the history of every breed with its characteristics and care needs has made me treasure each breed even more. Horses have an individual personality and I think it is important to find the one that fits your soul.

Be it with the sometimes mountain of a Shire or the versatile bundle of energy that is a Percheron, I know that if bred well, trained appropriately and loved daily, we can build our partnership to last over many years.

In the end, the real pleasure in owning a horse is not their beauty or might, but the way that I will connect and befriend them. Horses are amazing therapists, and I cannot wait to continue on this journey — they teach me so much and these wonderful animals are in fact helping me grow.