Rhineland Heavy Draft

The Schleswig Heavy Draft and the Rhineland Heavy Draft are of the brachymorphic type, each having unique origins. These breeds originated in West Germany (now part of reunited Germany), and they are of national importance. The Schleswig is derived from the Jutland and bears a remarkable resemblance to that breed, also having influence from the Suffolk Punch stallion, Oppenheim LXII. The Rhineland breed dates back to the second half of the 19th Century, and it is closely linked with the Ardennais, from which is it derived. The Rhineland has also received important contributions from the Belgian Heavy Draft.

The Rhineland was created for farm work and to be used in transport. Although this breed has retained the original characteristics, it has acquired a variety of names which relate to the different regions where it comes from. An example of this is the name "Niedersachsen Heavy Draft of Lower Saxony." The Stud book for this breed was established in 1876. The strong, hardy Rhineland has an aptitude for heavy draft and farm work, and its temperament is calm, and docile

Standing 16 to 17 hand tall, the Rhineland weighs around 2,200 pounds. Its coat color may be chestnut or bay, or red roan. The red roan may have a flaxen or black mane and tail. Its head is small but has pronounced jaws and a straight profile. The forelock is full and the eyes are small. The broad, muscular neck is quite short, and the withers are low and broad. It has a short, wide back, often slightly hollow, and broad, muscular loins. Its flanks are muscular and rounded, and the muscular, wide croup is slightly sloping. The muscular shoulder is rather straight, the chest is wide and deep and the abdomen large and rounded. Its short, well-muscled legs have broad joints and short cannons, and they are well-feathered. The feet are broad and tough.

For more information, 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
Mule Team