Horse
Breed Description:
The Dutch Heavy Draft breed of horse originated in the Netherlands, and is believed to be the most massive -- although not the tallest -- of all the European heavy draft horses. As the name suggests, it was traditionally used for heavy draft and farm work. Today, however, it is more often seen in the show-ring, where the horses drive a variety of carts. The Dutch Heavy Draft breed of horse is strong and solidly built. Its head has a straight profile with short, mobile ears, a short and huge neck, powerfully built front, and heavily muscled hind quarters. The hindquarters of the Dutch Heavy Draft breed of horse slope steeply from the croup, and its well-muscled legs have a lot of feathering. Although the horses are extremely heavy, their movements are free and easy. Coat color is usually chestnut, bay, roan, or gray, and sometimes black.
Temperament:
The Dutch Heavy Draft breed of horse has an exceptionally quiet and calm disposition.
Height:
The Dutch Heavy Draft breed of horse stands 16 to 16.3 hands high.
Living Conditions:
The Dutch Heavy Draft breed of horse is known as an easy keeper and economical, despite its size.
Grooming:
The Dutch Heavy Draft breed of horse requires regular grooming. Its hooves must be trimmed every two months or so.
Origin:
The Dutch Heavy Draft breed of horse was developed in the late 1800s and early 1900s from the Belgian Ardennais and the native Zeeland horse. The breed was found in great numbers in the provinces of Zeeland, Groningen, and North Brabant, where it worked on farms in the heavy marine clay.
