Horse
Breed Description:
The Brabant breed of horse is very similar to the Belgian breed of horse. In fact, prior to WWII, the breed was identical. However, after the war two different versions of the breed were developed. The breeding in Europe produced the Brabant, which is thicker, has more dense bones, and is generally heavier than the Belgian. The Brabant breed of horse has extensive feathering on the legs, and beautiful flaxen or blonde manes and tails. The Brabant has a deep body with a thick, compact neck. The head is massive and set with gentle, inquisitive eyes. The Brabant breed of horse is typically a shade of chestnut, although it can also be shades of roan including bay roan, and can also be sorrel, black, or gray, although these colors are considered rare.
Temperament:
The Brabant breed of horse is exceptionally gentle and is a treasured family pet and hard worker on many farms around the world. The Brabant tends to be quiet, and left to its own devices can be somewhat lazy. However, when asked to work, the Brabant is a tireless and extremely eager partner. The Brabant breed of horse is unmoved by loud noises or unexpected events, and thus makes a safe companion for any type of work or pleasure environment. The Brabant is an amazingly strong animal, so care should be taken when working around the animal.
Height:
15.2 to 17 hh
Health Problems:
The Brabant breed of horse is an especially healthy breed, and typically requires little supplemental care beyond good nutrition and regular veterinary care. However, the breed is particularly susceptible to a condition known as Junctional Epidermolysis Bullosa. This is a disease that affects major portions of the skin, as the name suggests. Large numbers of the breed carry the gene for this condition, and so breeding must be done only after testing and removal of affected parents from breeding programs. Other health issues that present themselves in the Brabant breed of horse are Hyperkeratosis, epilepsy, stroke, and fibrosis of distal limbs. Most of these conditions are rare, as Brabants typically enjoy a healthy life.
Origin:
The Brabant shares the same early history as the Belgian. However, the two breeds split after WWII, when a stronger, larger breed was needed to help with farming and rebuilding efforts. Brabants may be called by different names depending upon the country of origin, although they all share the same origins and ancestry. The Brabant breed of horse has a history of setting weight pulling records. 