The origins of the Dutch Draft are recent, and only go back to 1918. At that time, crosses were made between Zeeland-type mares and Belgian Heavy Draft, then they were crossed with Belgian Ardennes stallions. Prior to motorization limited its usefulness for transport and farm work, the Dutch Draft became quite popular. Even though this breed is massive in size and build, it is quite agile and has a natural easy action. The Dutch Draft is well suited to heavy draft and farm work, and is national important in Holland.
This horse of brachymorphic type stands approximately 16 hands high at the withers. Coat colors are generally chestnut, bay or grey, and in some exceptional cases there are black horse. The well-formed head tends to be square, with a rather pronounced jaw. The profile is straight, and the forehead is broad. The ears are straight, and the smallish eyes are intelligent in expression. The well set-on neck is powerful, and the withers low and broad. It has a short and straight back, muscular loins, and sloping croup. The tail is set-on low. It has a deep and roomy chest, and the shoulder is long and nicely sloping. The strong and muscular legs are well-feathered, and have broad joints and solid hooves.
The strong and hardy Dutch Draft has a quiet and active temperament and is lively and willing.
For more information on the Dutch Draft, visit:
Published June 1997 North West Breyer Horse Club newsletter. (em)
© 1997-2019 NW Breyer Horse Club
& Refiner of Gold Creations
Equinealities in place since 1997, Section in place 2001, Updated 1/27/2019
