Breed History

The Clydesdale Horse is a native breed of Scotland, founded in Lanarkshire, Clydesdale being the old name for that district. The history of the breed dates back to the middle of the 18th Century when native horses of Lanarkshire were upgraded in an effort to produce greater weight and substance through selective mating. Much care and forethought were exercised in the breeding and in the course of time there was developed the type, which for over 160 years has been recognised as a distinctive breed of draught horse.

The Clydesdale Breed Society was formed in Scotland in 1877. Early stallions who had a profound influence on the breed included Darnley, Prince of Wales, Baron’s Pride and Baron of Buchlyvie followed by probably the best known of all, Dunure Footprint renowned as the most prolific breeding sire in horse breeding history.
Baron's Pride - A founding sire of the breed
The Clydesdale has been developed into a handsome, weighty and powerful animal with an upstanding carriage and outlook, so that the impression is given of quality and strength rather than grossness and bulk. The Clydesdale’s greatest assets are its feet and legs which have been bred for their exceptional wearing qualities. Silky flowing feather and spat add to the beauty of movement of these horses. The colours most common are bay and roan with the characteristic white markings on legs and face. Blacks are less common. At the walk or trot, there must be good action with the foot at every step lifted clear of the ground. The animal is renowned for its quiet disposition.