Clydesdale Horses: Everything You Should Know About These Gentle Giants

Clydesdale Horse at a Glance

Before diving into the detailed history and characteristics of the Clydesdale horse, here’s a quick reference table summarizing the key traits that define this iconic draft breed:

The Clydesdale is a horse of contrasts: massive yet elegant, strong yet gentle. With their iconic feathered legs and striking white markings, these horses are not only workhorses of history but also symbols of grace and tradition.

Whether pulling wagons in parades or grazing peacefully in open fields, Clydesdales leave a lasting impression, making them a favorite among breeders, enthusiasts, and casual admirers alike.

Origins and History of the Clydesdale Horse

The Clydesdale horse traces its roots back to 18th-century Scotland, specifically to the River Clyde valley in Lanarkshire. Farmers in this region sought a strong, dependable draft horse capable of handling heavy agricultural work and hauling loads through the rugged countryside. By selectively breeding local mares with imported Flemish stallions, they gradually shaped what we now know as the Clydesdale draft horse.

As the breed gained popularity for its strength, docility, and striking appearance, it was exported widely—to Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the United States. In North America, the Clydesdale became especially iconic thanks to its adoption by Anheuser-Busch. The beer company introduced the Budweiser Clydesdale horse team in 1933 to celebrate the end of Prohibition, and they quickly became a beloved symbol of tradition, elegance, and strength.

Today, the Budweiser Clydesdale horse farm in Missouri maintains several hitches of these majestic horses, touring the U.S. throughout the year. Their appearances—often detailed in the Budweiser Clydesdale horse schedule—at parades, fairs, and Super Bowl commercials have cemented the breed’s place in American culture.

What Makes a Clydesdale Horse Unique?

The Clydesdale horse stands out not just for its massive size but for its regal appearance and calm demeanor. These horses are among the tallest and heaviest of all domestic breeds, often turning heads wherever they go.

How tall is a Clydesdale horse?
On average, a Clydesdale measures between 16 and 18 hands high (64 to 72 inches, or 1.63 to 1.83 meters at the withers). Some individuals, particularly those in show or promotional teams like the Budweiser hitches, can exceed 18 hands, making them true giants among horses.

Clydesdale horse weight typically ranges from 1,600 to 2,400 pounds (725 to 1,100 kilograms). Their heavy, muscular build allows them to pull impressive loads, a trait that historically made them ideal for farm work and hauling.

Their body shape features a broad chest, strong legs, and pronounced feathering—long silky hair—on their lower legs, which adds to their distinctive look. The coat is most often bay (a rich reddish-brown) with white markings on the face and legs, although white Clydesdale horses and other color variations do exist.

The breed’s head is relatively short with a straight or slightly convex profile, and they often have an expressive, kind eye—an outward reflection of their famously gentle temperament.

Temperament and Personality of the Clydesdale Horse

One of the most compelling reasons people fall in love with the Clydesdale horse—beyond its physical majesty—is its remarkable temperament. Despite their immense size and power, Clydesdales are renowned for being gentle giants, combining calmness, intelligence, and a strong desire to work with humans.

Gentle, Yet Alert

Clydesdales are consistently described as even-tempered and emotionally stable. Bred to pull carts through crowded city streets, their temperament was naturally selected for patience and reliability. Today, these traits remain deeply embedded: a well-handled Clydesdale is rarely startled, remains calm in noisy or unfamiliar environments, and generally exhibits a quiet confidence.

They are not dull or sluggish, however. Clydesdales are attentive, aware of their surroundings, and responsive to training. Their intelligence shines through in both groundwork and under saddle, as they often anticipate commands and form strong bonds with their handlers.

Human-Focused and Eager to Please

Most Clydesdales enjoy close interaction with people. They thrive in environments where they receive regular attention, gentle handling, and purposeful work. Their willingness to cooperate and natural sociability makes them suitable not only for seasoned horse owners but also for patient beginners working under supervision.

These horses are also emotionally sensitive. They respond well to calm voices and body language, but can become hesitant or withdrawn if treated harshly. Clear, consistent routines and positive reinforcement help bring out the best in their personality.

Trustworthy in Public Settings

Because of their trainable nature and mental composure, Clydesdales are frequently chosen for public appearances, including:

• Parades and festivals with music, crowds, and distractions
• Therapeutic riding programs where reliability and calmness are vital
• Weddings, shows, or promotional events that require grace and obedience

Their majestic movements and friendly demeanor often steal the show—and not just because of their size.

A Good Match for the Right Owner

Clydesdales are not hyper-reactive or skittish, making them less prone to dangerous behavior than some hot-blooded breeds. Still, their weight and strength demand confident, informed handling, especially when leading, loading, or riding. They are ideal for riders or owners who value steadiness, loyalty, and connection over speed or technical athleticism.

Whether used for work, pleasure, or companionship, a well-socialized Clydesdale offers a deeply rewarding experience. They are the embodiment of power under control—majestic in motion and peaceful at rest.

Riding and Working with Clydesdales

One of the most common questions about this breed is: Can you ride a Clydesdale horse? The answer is yes—but with a few caveats. While they were originally bred for pulling rather than riding, Clydesdale horse riding is entirely possible and can be a uniquely smooth and steady experience due to their calm gait and even temperament.

However, because of their size, they require specially fitted tack, including larger saddles and bridles, and mounting can be a challenge for smaller or less experienced riders. Riders should also consider the horse’s weight and stride, which can make them better suited for leisure riding, trail work, or even therapeutic riding, rather than high-speed or competitive disciplines.

In their traditional role as a Clydesdale draft horse, these animals excel. Their power, stamina, and patience make them ideal for pulling carriages, logs, and agricultural equipment. Even today, some small farms and forestry operations favor them over machinery for their quiet reliability.

When comparing breeds, Clydesdale vs. regular horse highlights the draft breed’s size, strength, and disposition. Where a regular riding horse might weigh 1,000 pounds and stand 15 hands high, a Clydesdale easily surpasses those figures and offers a completely different experience—more deliberate and majestic.

Clydesdales Compared to Other Breeds

While the Clydesdale horse is one of the most recognizable draft breeds in the world, it’s often compared to other heavy horses like the Shire and Belgian. These breeds share many traits—size, strength, and a working heritage—but they also differ in key characteristics such as appearance, temperament, and purpose. To better understand where the Clydesdale stands, here’s a side-by-side comparison with its closest relatives and with the average riding horse:

These differences highlight why each breed suits a particular purpose. The Clydesdale strikes a balance between strength and show appeal, making it ideal for parades, ceremonial roles, and even riding. The Shire horse, with its immense size and steady temperament, remains a favorite for traditional draft work in the UK. The Belgian draft horse is often the top choice for pure pulling power, particularly in North America. Meanwhile, regular riding horses offer versatility and agility, making them better suited for disciplines like jumping, dressage, and trail riding.

Each horse type comes with its own care needs, training style, and ideal environment. Choosing the right one depends on what you value most—whether it's strength, elegance, or everyday versatility.

Care and Maintenance of a Clydesdale Horse

Owning a Clydesdale horse is a rewarding experience—but it comes with unique challenges. These magnificent animals require more space, food, and attention than average-sized horses. Understanding their needs is essential for ensuring their health, happiness, and longevity.

Space and Shelter

Clydesdales are among the largest domestic horses in the world, and their living conditions must reflect that scale. They need:

• Larger stalls (ideally 14x14 feet or more) with sufficient room to lie down, turn, and move comfortably
• High ceilings to accommodate their height
• Spacious paddocks or pastures with firm, dry footing to prevent hoof issues
• Sturdy fencing—lightweight or low rails may not withstand their size and weight

Shade in the summer and protection from cold winds in the winter are especially important due to their exposed limbs and larger body mass.

Feeding and Nutrition

The Clydesdale’s diet must support both its size and energy requirements, without tipping into overfeeding—which could cause metabolic disorders or joint stress.

A typical feeding plan includes:

• High-quality hay (alfalfa or grass-based), often 30–40 pounds per day
• Grain or concentrate feeds, if the horse is in moderate to heavy work
• Vitamin and mineral supplements, especially during growth phases
• Access to clean water at all times, with troughs large enough for heavy use

Owners must avoid excess starch and sugar. Carefully monitoring weight and adjusting feed seasonally is critical to preventing obesity, colic, and laminitis.

Hoof and Feather Care

The Clydesdale’s feathered legs are beautiful but also labor-intensive:

• Feathers trap moisture, making the breed prone to mud fever and other skin infections
• Regular washing, drying, and even trimming in wet seasons is essential
• Feathers should be checked daily for signs of scabbing, odor, or swelling

Hooves require:

• Trimming every 6–8 weeks, often more frequently due to rapid wear
• A skilled farrier experienced with heavy breeds
• Proper balance and supportive shoes to reduce joint strain

Their large hooves may also need custom-sized shoes, which can increase farrier costs.

Exercise and Enrichment

Despite their size, Clydesdales benefit from regular physical activity:

• Daily turnout promotes circulation and hoof health
• Groundwork improves coordination and strengthens the back
• Light riding or driving, when done regularly, keeps them fit and mentally stimulated

Bored or confined Clydesdales may become lethargic or develop stable vices. Rotating their routine and offering varied terrain or tasks (e.g. obstacle courses, trail walks) keeps them engaged.

Routine Veterinary Care

Clydesdales need all standard veterinary services:

• Annual vaccinations for tetanus, influenza, and West Nile virus
• Dental exams—their large teeth are prone to uneven wear
• Parasite management—pasture rotation and strategic deworming
• Monitoring of weight, joints, and feathered limbs for early signs of disease

Because of their size, transport, treatment, and diagnostic costs are typically higher than with smaller horses. Owners should budget accordingly and seek veterinarians with draft horse experience.

Common Health Issues in Clydesdales

While Clydesdales are known for their strength and resilience, their size and feathering make them prone to a few breed-specific health problems. Recognizing these early and managing them proactively is key to keeping a Clydesdale healthy and sound throughout its life.

1. Pastern Dermatitis (Mud Fever)

The long, thick feathering on a Clydesdale’s legs can trap moisture, dirt, and bacteria—leading to painful skin infections like mud fever. Symptoms include:

• Scabby or oozing sores around the fetlocks
• Swelling and heat
• Reluctance to move

Prevention includes regular cleaning and drying of the legs, especially in wet or muddy conditions. During damp months, many owners use leg wraps, antimicrobial shampoos, or even clip the feathers short for easier management.

2. Chronic Progressive Lymphedema (CPL)

CPL is a debilitating condition unique to heavy breeds like the Clydesdale. It involves poor lymphatic drainage in the lower limbs, resulting in:

• Progressive swelling and thickening of the skin
• Lymph fluid buildup and skin infections
• Crusting, discomfort, and in advanced stages, immobility

There is no cure for CPL, but consistent leg care, movement, massage, and veterinary monitoring can help manage symptoms and slow progression. Early intervention is crucial.

3. Laminitis

Clydesdales are also susceptible to laminitis, a serious condition where the soft tissues inside the hoof become inflamed. This is often triggered by:

• Overfeeding grain or sugary pasture
• Sudden dietary changes
• Obesity or metabolic disorders

Symptoms include heat in the hooves, reluctance to walk, and shifting weight. Laminitis is an emergency and demands immediate veterinary care. Preventative strategies include maintaining a lean body condition and feeding a balanced diet.

📖 Must Read: Learn how to prevent and manage laminitis in horses —one of the most painful and dangerous hoof conditions— with practical tips and expert advice. Read more

4. Arthritis and Joint Strain

Due to their weight and workload, Clydesdales are at high risk for joint stress, particularly in the hocks, knees, and pasterns. Over time, this can lead to arthritis, especially in:

• Horses used for hard pulling or repetitive motion
• Older individuals
• Those with poor hoof alignment

Supportive hoof trimming, joint supplements, and careful exercise management can delay or reduce symptoms. In some cases, medication or specialized shoeing is required.

5. Developmental Orthopedic Disorders

Young Clydesdales grow rapidly—sometimes gaining hundreds of pounds in their first year. If not managed correctly, this can lead to:

• Osteochondrosis (cartilage development disorders)
• Angular limb deformities
• Bone and joint stress from rapid growth

Prevention starts with a controlled diet rich in minerals and low in excess calories. Young horses should be exercised gently and given time to mature before being put to work.

Buying a Clydesdale

If you’ve ever watched a Budweiser parade and wondered, “Are any Budweiser Clydesdale horses for sale?”, you’re not alone. While the specific horses owned by Anheuser-Busch are not typically available to the public, it is possible to purchase Clydesdale horses from private breeders and farms across North America, the UK, and Australia.

Clydesdale horse cost can vary widely based on age, training, pedigree, and intended use. On average, expect to pay:

• $2,500–$5,000 for a young or untrained horse
• $5,000–$10,000+ for a trained or show-quality animal
• Significantly more for rare colors (like a white Clydesdale) or exceptional bloodlines

Beyond the purchase price, prospective owners should budget for ongoing expenses:

• Feeding: Clydesdales require a high volume of forage and sometimes supplements to maintain healthy weight.
• Housing: Due to their size, they need spacious stalls and turnout areas.
• Equipment: Saddles, bridles, and trailers must be custom-fitted or heavy-duty.
• Veterinary care and farrier services: Larger hooves and bodies often mean higher costs for maintenance.

For those not ready for full ownership, many draft horse farms offer riding lessons, experiences, or even co-ownership programs.

Buying a Clydesdale is a commitment—not just of money, but of time and space. Yet for those drawn to their gentle nature and majestic presence, the rewards can be well worth it.

Conclusion: Majestic Strength with a Gentle Heart

The Clydesdale horse is much more than just a powerful draft animal—it’s a living symbol of grace, endurance, and trust. With their towering height, flowing feathered legs, and striking white markings, they captivate audiences around the world. But it’s their calm, willing temperament and deep connection to people that truly sets them apart.

Whether you’re drawn to the breed for riding, working, or simply their iconic presence in parades and history, owning or caring for a Clydesdale comes with responsibility. Their needs in space, nutrition, and grooming are unique, but those who meet them are rewarded with a reliable, affectionate, and awe-inspiring partner.

From their humble beginnings in Scotland to global fame through the Budweiser brand, Clydesdales remain as relevant and respected today as ever—a true embodiment of power with peace.

Clydesdale: FAQ about the Gentle Giants

How long do Clydesdales live?

On average, a healthy Clydesdale horse lives between 20 and 25 years. With proper care, some may live even longer.

Are Clydesdales suitable for beginners?

Yes—thanks to their calm and cooperative nature, Clydesdales can be suitable for beginners, especially under professional guidance. Their size, however, requires confident handling and adequate facilities.

What kind of care does a Clydesdale need?

They need large amounts of feed, special equipment, and frequent grooming, especially of their feathered legs. Regular farrier care is essential due to their weight.

Can they be used for sport or work?

Yes, Clydesdales excel in pulling, parades, farm work, and even recreational riding. They're not built for speed, but they shine in strength-based roles.

Do they get along with other horses?

Typically yes. Clydesdales are sociable and can live peacefully with other horses or farm animals if properly introduced.

What two breeds make a Clydesdale horse?

The Clydesdale originated from crossing local Scottish mares with Flemish stallions in the 18th century. This mix created a strong, reliable draft horse adapted to heavy work.

What horse is bigger than a Clydesdale?

The Shire horse is generally considered the only breed larger than the Clydesdale. Shires often exceed 19 hands and can weigh more than 2,400 pounds.

How much is a Budweiser Clydesdale horse worth?

While exact prices for Budweiser horses aren't public, a well-bred show-quality Clydesdale can be worth $10,000 to $25,000 or more, especially if trained and from a renowned lineage.

Are Budweiser Clydesdales male or female?

The official Budweiser Clydesdales are all geldings (castrated males). They must meet strict criteria, including size, temperament, color, and markings.

Why can't you ride a Clydesdale horse?

Actually, you can ride a Clydesdale horse. The myth comes from their size and traditional draft use. While not agile like lighter breeds, they are rideable with the right tack and care.