Kladruber

Looks how to spot one

body

The Kladruber is a large, majestic horse with a Roman facial profile, a swanlike neck, a concave head profile, and a high-stepping gait. It has a medium-sized to large rectangular frame, harmonious proportions, a prominent large dark eye and small ears. The breed is late-maturing, reaching adulthood between 4 and 6 years, and is known for its longevity and sturdy constitution.45

Personality what they are like

The Kladruber is renowned for its calm, balanced and docile nature. It is intelligent, willing and quick to learn, making it a reliable and pleasant partner despite its imposing size. Horses have a lively yet composed temperament and are open to working with people.43

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Kladrubers are active horses that excel in combined driving, dressage and recreational riding. They need regular exercise and mental stimulation. Their calm nature makes them suitable for leisure driving and hippotherapy. They are also used by mounted police, so they benefit from varied work and training.63

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Hooves require regular and precise trimming due to the large body mass they support. The mane and tail, often profuse, need regular detangling. The coat is easy to maintain but daily brushing is recommended to keep it clean and shiny, especially for grey coats which can stain easily. Joint monitoring is advised, especially in older or heavily worked horses.3

Home where they are happiest

Kladrubers need spacious stabling or pasture with shelter. They are adaptable to various climates, having acclimated to the inclement weather of Central Europe. Good weight management and a safe, clean environment are essential to prevent joint overload. No special legal restrictions are noted for keeping this breed.53

Food basics what goes in the bowl

The Kladruber has a rather economical metabolism. It requires a balanced diet rich in good quality forage, with hay ad libitum if possible. Concentrates should be adjusted according to activity level to avoid obesity. Attention should be paid to mineral and vitamin intake. No specific dietary sensitivities are documented beyond those common to large horse breeds.3

Company who they like around

Kladrubers are social animals that thrive with companionship, whether other horses or regular human interaction. They are quick to learn and enjoy working with people. Their calm temperament makes them suitable for supervised beginner riders, though their size and power require a confident rider.34

The story where it all began

The Kladruber is one of the oldest Czech horse breeds, developed at the Imperial Stud Farm of Kladruby nad Labem, founded in 1579 by Emperor Rudolf II. It was bred specifically as a ceremonial carriage horse, known as a galakarossier, to pull the imperial coach in four- or six-in-hand formations at court ceremonies and funerals. The breed originally came in a variety of colours, including palomino and appaloosa, but today is strictly grey or black due to the court's ceremonial requirements. Grey horses served the royal court, while black horses were used by high clergy. The breed has survived the Napoleonic Wars and both World Wars through rigorous conservation. Today, Kladrubers still serve at royal courts, such as pulling the Danish queen's state coach, and are used by mounted police in Czech cities. They also excel in combined driving competitions and dressage.123

Recognised by the official bits

Czech Kladruber studbook

The breed is maintained in a studbook and recognised as a distinct Czech breed.1