Irish Draught

Looks how to spot one

light draught

A powerful yet elegant warmblood build with a pleasant head, good bone, short shin, well-sprung ribs, strong loins and hindquarters, and an active, powerful stride.45

Personality what they are like

The Irish Draught is renowned for its kind, willing and easy-going nature. It is brave, intelligent and remarkably versatile, making it a safe and reliable partner for both novice and experienced riders.32

Daily activity how busy a day looks

This breed needs regular exercise and thrives on a variety of activities including hacking, jumping, dressage, driving and endurance riding. It is a slow maturing breed, not considered fully grown until 7 to 8 years old, so young horses should be worked sensibly.36

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Regular grooming keeps the coat and skin healthy. Before riding, clean areas where tack will sit and pick out hooves daily. A daily once-over helps check for injuries. Routine farrier visits and veterinary check-ups are essential.2

Home where they are happiest

As a horse, the Irish Draught requires access to a safe, spacious stable or shelter, plus turnout in a well-fenced paddock or field. It is economical to keep and can thrive on good grazing supplemented with hay and, if needed, grains.12

Food basics what goes in the bowl

A balanced diet of fresh grass, quality hay and, if required, grains. Fresh water must always be available. It is best to consult a vet or equine nutritionist for individual recommendations.2

Company who they like around

Horses are herd animals and need companionship, ideally from other horses. The Irish Draught's gentle temperament makes it suitable for amateur and leisure riders. It is also used worldwide as a police horse due to its bravery and calmness in busy environments.32

The story where it all began

The Irish Draught was developed in Ireland as an all-round working horse for small farms. Farmers needed one animal that could plough, harrow, pull a cart, hunt and be ridden to church. The breed's roots go back to the 18th century, with influences from the Irish Hobby, Anglo-Norman war horses, Spanish Andalusian stallions, Clydesdales and Thoroughbreds. The studbook was opened in 1917, though original records were lost in the 1922 fire at the Four Courts. Today, it is a designated rare breed and is frequently crossed with Thoroughbreds and warmbloods to produce the Irish Sport Horse.134

Recognised by the official bits

Irish Draught Horse Breeders Association

Maintains the breed standard and studbook3

Horse Sport Ireland

Approved to operate the breeding programme for the Irish Draught Horse Studbook4