Clydesdale: everything you need to know about this powerful, elegant and iconic draught horse
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The Clydesdale is that giant horse we often see in photos, mane blowing in the wind, feathered legs flowing, calm gaze steady. It combines power and elegance. A true symbol of quiet strength. It’s one of the most recognisable draught horses in the world. Admired in parades, Budweiser adverts and driving competitions. But behind its stately presence lies a rich history, a unique physique, and a true working temperament.
Origins and history of the Clydesdale
A breed born in Scotland
The Clydesdale hails from the Clyde Valley in Scotland, early 18th century. Local farmers needed a horse that was strong, enduring, but easy to handle. They crossed local mares with Flemish horses. The result: a powerful, hardy breed, with a massive yet supple frame.
It wasn’t a noble or parade-only horse. It was a worker, through and through. The kind you’d see just as much in fields as in the streets, pulling without rest.
The Clydesdale’s role in farming and transport
Before engines, it did all the pulling. Beer carts, ploughs, timber... it hauled everything. In towns, it delivered barrels for breweries, especially in Scotland and England. On the road, it replaced lorries.
Its broad, stable stride, calm nature and pulling strength made it the ideal horse for heavy loads.
Some breeders still say their grandparents called them “hoofed lorries”.
Exportation, studbook and international recognition
The Clydesdale’s success quickly spread beyond Scotland. It was widely exported to Canada, Australia and the United States. In the US, it became a national icon, especially thanks to Budweiser, who adopted it as a symbol of tradition and strength.
The official studbook was created in 1877. Today, the breed is monitored, promoted and preserved by serious associations around the world.
It’s a recognised breed in international competitions, valued both for its looks and performance in harness.
Morphology and physical characteristics
Height, weight and general size
The Clydesdale is a giant, but well-proportioned. Here are the average measurements:
| Sex | Height at withers | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Geldings / Males | 1.70 m to 1.85 m | 800 to 1,000 kg |
| Mares | 1.65 m to 1.75 m | 700 to 900 kg |
Some individuals even reach over 2 metres at the withers, especially in the US. Standing next to one, you feel small — but their gentle attitude puts you at ease immediately.
Coat colours, feathering and distinctive traits
What catches the eye right away:
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A coat usually bay, chestnut or black, with large white stockings
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Long, thick white feathers on the lower legs
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A straight, expressive head with a steady gaze
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A muscular, arched neck
Those feathers are stunning, but they require upkeep — more on that later.
How to tell a Clydesdale from a Shire or a Percheron
They may look similar, but these are three very different breeds:
| Breed | Height | Typical coat | Feathering | Build |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clydesdale | 1.70 – 1.85 m | Bay / Chestnut / Black | Long, dense | Sleek, expressive |
| Shire | 1.80 – 2.00 m | Black, grey, bay | Very full | Heavier, more massive |
| Percheron | 1.60 – 1.80 m | Grey or black | Little or none | Compact, muscular |
The Clydesdale stands out with its more refined appearance, striking white stockings, and a more elegant silhouette, despite its size. You’ll also recognise it by its high-legged, light movement, with longer, finer limbs than other draught breeds.
Temperament and behaviour
A calm, sociable and cooperative horse
The Clydesdale may impress with its size, but it reassures with its gentle temperament. It’s calm, docile and easy to handle. Even in noisy or unfamiliar environments, it stays composed. It walks on calmly, without stress. There’s nothing nervous or skittish about this breed.
It’s often called a “gentle giant”. It’s comfortable around humans, adapts quickly to routines, and works without resistance. You can bring it to a busy village, a wedding, or an agricultural show, and it won’t get overwhelmed.
Suitable for all levels? (beginners, children, experienced riders)
Yes with common sense. The Clydesdale is well-suited to beginners, as long as they’re supervised. It doesn’t overreact, it forgives mistakes. But it’s still a horse weighing around 800 kg. Without experience, it’s not a horse to manage alone.
In riding schools or on guided rides, it’s ideal. It builds confidence. Its pace is regular and steady. Children love it for its calm nature and majestic look.
For experienced riders, it offers comfort, strength and presence in the saddle. It’s not built for sport, but for those seeking stability and emotional connection, it’s a great fit.
Sensitivity, intelligence and bond with humans
This horse listens, observes, learns, and adapts. It quickly understands routines. It recognises voices, gestures, and familiar faces. Some owners say their Clydesdale comes galloping as soon as it hears the groom’s car.
It’s also highly expressive. You can tell straight away if something’s bothering it — discomfort, a change in environment, a new tool. It doesn’t panic, but it communicates clearly. It’s about interaction, not reaction.
This intelligent and affectionate nature makes it a special companion. You don’t just get attached to what it does — you get attached to who it is.
Disciplines and uses of the Clydesdale
Driving, logging and traction work
This is its natural playground. The Clydesdale excels at heavy driving, logging, and agricultural traction. Its strength and calm nature make it a reliable workhorse.
It moves steadily, stays in line, remains focused. In pairs, it matches well with other horses, even from different breeds. It’s also used in traditional ploughing demos, load pulling, or to promote old-school techniques.
In cities, it’s making a comeback in eco-friendly transport, replacing motorised vehicles. It draws attention and reconnects us with a slower, more natural way of life.
Ridden: can it be a leisure horse?
Yes — even if that’s not its primary job, the Clydesdale can absolutely be ridden. It offers a very stable seat, ideal for gentle hacks. Its width may be a bit much for smaller riders, but for an adult, it’s like riding a 800 kg armchair.
It’s not built for speed or agility, but it moves with steady effort and willingness. It responds well to cues, learns basic skills quickly. For leisure riding, trail hacks, or even low-intensity activities like TREC, it’s a fun and original option.
Just make sure to get a saddle that fits — often custom-made or with an extra-wide gullet.
Its role in advertising and shows (Budweiser, parades...)
The Clydesdale is a media star. In the US, it’s been the symbol of Budweiser since the 1930s — chosen to embody tradition, strength, and authenticity.
These horses still appear today at major sports events, national holidays, and agricultural shows. They draw huge crowds, photographers, and admirers.
In France and across Europe, they’re also used for:
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Wedding carriages
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Historical parades
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Films and re-enactments
Their visual presence is powerful. You don’t forget a Clydesdale once you’ve seen one. They bring grandeur and gentleness, making them perfect representatives for brands, regions, or cultural heritage.
Care, health and feeding
Lifespan and natural hardiness
The Clydesdale typically lives between 20 and 25 years. It’s a hardy breed, well-suited to cold climates and moderate physical effort. Originally from Scotland’s damp environment, it has adapted to wet conditions and rugged terrain.
Its strong bones, calm temperament, and high pain tolerance make it a reliable horse over time.
Some individuals still work beyond 18 years of age, especially in forestry or vineyard settings. With a healthy lifestyle and regular care, it ages well and usually avoids major health issues.
Feathering, hooves and specific care needs
The Clydesdale’s long, dense feathering is stunning — but high-maintenance. Moisture, dirt, and sweat can lead to irritation or skin conditions such as mud fever or thrush. To prevent this:
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Brush and air out the feathers regularly
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Dry thoroughly after walking on wet ground
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Avoid prolonged exposure to muddy areas
Its large hooves need trimming every 6 to 8 weeks, possibly shoeing if the horse works on rough terrain or in heavy traction. Given its weight, poor hoof care quickly leads to lameness.
Heavy limbs mean heavy responsibility, keeping the legs clean and the hooves healthy is essential to avoid strain or injury.
Feeding adapted to its size (forage, supplements, etc.)
The Clydesdale eats a lot — but not just anything. Its diet must be balanced and tailored to its build and activity level. It needs:
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High-quality hay at will (20 to 30 kg/day)
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Fibre-rich concentrates, especially if working
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Vitamins and minerals suited to its size and workload
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Plenty of clean water, always available
It digests well, but its system is sensitive to sudden changes. To avoid digestive upsets:
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Split meals into smaller portions
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Avoid abrupt ration changes
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Monitor belly size and behaviour
A consistent routine helps maintain a healthy metabolism and optimal energy.
Mistakes to avoid (wet ground, overfeeding, etc.)
Some common errors can seriously affect its health:
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Leaving it in muddy areas → high risk of mud fever
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Overfeeding → rapid weight gain and stress on joints and hooves
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Lack of activity → boredom and unwanted behaviours
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Neglecting feather care → hides early skin infections
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Underdosing supplements → mineral deficiencies are common in under-monitored draught horses
The golden rule: regularity, hygiene, and observation.
A well-maintained Clydesdale is a healthy, happy, and productive horse a joy to own and work with.
Daily life and ideal environment
Stable or outdoor life?
The Clydesdale thrives outdoors. It needs space, fresh air, and freedom of movement. It handles cold and wet conditions very well, as long as it’s not left standing in mud. An open shelter with good drainage is more than enough in most cases.
A stable isn’t forbidden, but it must be spacious, well-ventilated, and cleaned regularly. For such a large horse, a small box quickly becomes an issue. It must be able to lie down, turn, and get up without bumping into the walls.
Space, activity and social needs
A Clydesdale requires:
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Several thousand square metres of land, flat or hilly
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A well-drained field or open shelter
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Regular activity (walks, work, grooming...)
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A companion — another horse, a donkey, even sheep
The Clydesdale loves company, both human and animal. If left alone too long, it can become lethargic or withdrawn.
Estimated monthly upkeep cost
A horse this size comes with sizeable costs. Here’s a typical breakdown:
| Category | Estimated monthly cost |
|---|---|
| Hay and feed | €180 to €250 |
| Hoof trimming/shoes | €40 to €100 |
| Routine care | €30 to €50 |
| Bedding (if stabled) | €30 to €60 |
| Total estimate | €300 to €450 |
Buying or adopting a Clydesdale
Average price based on age and training
Prices vary significantly depending on:
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Age
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Sex
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Training level
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Country of origin (France, UK, USA...)
On average:
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Untrained foal: €2,000 to €4,000
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Trained adult (driving): €5,000 to €9,000
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Show lines / Budweiser lineage: €10,000 and up
Transport can be costly due to the size of the horse — special lorries and equipment are often required.
Who is this breed for?
The Clydesdale is ideal for:
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Draught horse enthusiasts
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Beginners with support
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Equestrian tourism centres, educational farms
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Professionals in shows, re-enactment, or driving events
It’s not a jumping or competition horse. It’s a companion for the outdoors, hands-on work, and a slower pace.
Where to find a reputable breeder?
We recommend:
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The French Clydesdale Association
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Recognised breeders in Scotland, England, Canada
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Agricultural shows (e.g., draught horse contests)
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Specialised classified ads, with in-person visits
Avoid quick sales or photo-only purchases. You must see the animal, the environment, and the documents. A good breeder takes time to explain, demonstrate, and advise.
Comparing with other draught breeds
Shire, Percheron, Belgian Draught: what's the difference?
| Breed | Height | Common coat | Feathering | Build | Temperament |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clydesdale | 1.70 to 1.85 m | Bay, chestnut, black | Long | Sleek, expressive | Calm, willing |
| Shire | 1.80 to 2.00 m | Black, grey, bay | Very long | Heavy, imposing | Very docile, slow |
| Percheron | 1.60 to 1.80 m | Grey, black | Minimal | Compact, muscular | Honest, hardy |
| Belgian | 1.65 to 1.75 m | Light chestnut | Minimal | Very strong, stocky | Quiet, efficient |
The Clydesdale stands out for its showy presence and its balance of strength and elegance. It’s finer than the Belgian, more expressive than the Shire, and taller than the Percheron.
Why choose a Clydesdale today?
For its:
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Stable temperament
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Outstanding appearance
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Versatility
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Natural bond with humans
It’s a horse chosen as much for its use as for its charisma. It turns heads, commands respect, and builds a connection. It represents a slower, deeper, more grounded way of life.
The Clydesdale phenomenon on social media
Why does this breed fascinate on video?
The Clydesdale has everything to delight the eye:
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Impressive size
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White feathering flowing in the wind
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Wavy mane, glossy coat
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Slow but majestic movement
In video, it grabs attention within seconds. Its natural presence is magnetic. Even walking in a field becomes a poetic scene.
The Instagram and TikTok star
Social accounts showcasing Clydesdales get millions of views. Videos of grooming, harnessing, cuddles, or hoof care regularly go viral.
On TikTok, some clips of a Clydesdale trotting with flowing feathers have reached over 10 million views.
This isn’t just a horse. It’s a living image of raw, natural, powerful beauty.
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