Cold-Blooded Horse Breeds: Everything You Need to Know

What Are Cold-Blooded Horses?

“Cold-blooded” might sound like horses with chilly feet – but don’t worry, it has nothing to do with body temperature! In fact, cold-blooded horses are one of the three main horse types, alongside warmbloods and hot-blooded breeds. The term “cold” refers to their calm, gentle temperament, not their body heat.

These horses are true powerhouses. With their broad chests, strong muscles and good-natured character, they’ve been the ideal working horses for centuries. Whether plowing fields, hauling timber or pulling carriages – cold-blooded horses always delivered. And the best part? Their temperament is just as impressive as their looks: friendly, level-headed, and extremely reliable.

So why are they called “cold-blooded”? Compared to the fiery hotbloods, bred for speed and refinement, and the versatile warmbloods, cold-blooded horses represent pure strength and calmness. Their movements are steady and measured – ideal for hard work or relaxed trail riding.

In short: cold-blooded horses are the gentle giants of the equine world. They’re big, strong and incredibly laid-back – you can’t help but love them. Whether working in harness or simply admired from afar, they always leave a lasting impression.

The History of Cold-Blooded Horses

The history of cold-blooded horses is as impressive as their massive build. These remarkable horses were bred centuries ago to handle the heaviest of tasks – from farming and transportation to military service.

Most cold-blooded breeds originated in cooler regions of Europe, which explains their hardy constitution. In Germany, breeds like the South German Coldblood and the Black Forest Draft Horse played a key role. These horses were specifically bred to work on farms, pulling heavy plows through tough soil or hauling logs in forestry work.

During the Middle Ages, cold-blooded horses were indispensable. Their size and strength made them ideal war horses capable of carrying heavily armored knights into battle. Well-known draft breeds such as the Belgian Draft Horse earned fame across Europe for their power and dependability.

With the arrival of the Industrial Revolution, machines gradually replaced horses in agriculture and transport. But cold-blooded horses never disappeared. Instead, they found new roles – as carriage horses, stars of traditional parades, or helpers in sustainable forestry. Today, they are increasingly appreciated as leisure horses thanks to their calm nature.

Characteristics of Cold-Blooded Horses

Cold-blooded horses impress with their majestic appearance and gentle character. They are among the strongest and most robust horse breeds and are often affectionately referred to as gentle giants. But what exactly sets them apart?

Size and Weight

Cold-blooded horses are some of the largest and heaviest horses in the world. They typically stand between 160 and 180 cm (15.3 to 17.3 hands) at the withers. Their weight varies greatly by breed:

• Lighter cold-blooded types (e.g. the Haflinger) weigh around 400 to 600 kg
• Heavier breeds (e.g. the Shire Horse) can exceed 1,200 kg

This weight enables them to pull extremely heavy loads – but it also requires special attention in care and housing, especially concerning hoof health and ground stability.

Build and Appearance

With a broad chest, strong neck, and powerful legs, cold-blooded horses are built for heavy-duty work. Their physique radiates strength and steadiness. They often have thick manes and tails, along with dense winter coats that protect them in harsh climates. Certain breeds, like the Black Forest Horse, are especially eye-catching with their dark, shiny coats.

Temperament

Despite their massive size, cold-blooded horses are known for their docile and calm nature. They are extremely gentle, patient, and unflappable – traits that make them not only excellent workhorses but also reliable companions for leisure riding and driving.

Strength and Versatility

Cold-blooded horses were bred for power and endurance. Whether pulling loads, dragging logs, or carrying carriages, they perform their tasks with incredible ease.

Did you know?
A single cold-blooded horse can pull several tons! These horses are natural athletes when it comes to strength.

Sociability and Intelligence

In addition to their physical strength, cold-blooded horses impress with their intelligence. They are quick learners, gentle by nature, and highly cooperative. It’s no surprise that they are valued not only as workhorses but also as reliable partners for leisure riding.

Differences Between Cold-Blooded, Warmblood, and Thoroughbred Horses

Cold-blooded horses, warmbloods, and thoroughbreds differ primarily in terms of build, temperament, and typical use:

Well-Known Draft Horse Breeds

Cold-blooded horses are renowned for their strength, muscular build, and gentle temperament. But not all draft horses are the same:
There is a distinction between light draft breeds, which are more agile and versatile, and heavy draft breeds, which are true powerhouses.
Each group has its own characteristics and is suited for different types of work.

Here’s an overview:

Light Draft Horse Breeds

Haflinger

The Haflinger is one of the best-known light draft breeds. Originating from the Alpine regions, it has earned a global reputation for its versatility.

• Origin: South Tyrol (now Italy/Austria)
• Height: 1.35–1.55 m
• Weight: 400–600 kg
• Coat: Always chestnut with a light mane
• Traits: Compact, harmonious build, gentle and versatile
• Use: Leisure riding, carriage driving, therapy, trail riding

Fjord Horse (Norwegian Fjord)

The Fjord Horse is one of the oldest horse breeds in Europe, known for its characteristic upright mane and strong physique.

• Origin: Norway
• Height: 1.35–1.50 m
• Weight: 400–500 kg
• Coat: Dun (yellow dun, brown dun, grey dun, red dun)
• Traits: Strong, enduring, gentle
• Use: Leisure, driving, work horse

Dülmen Wild Horse

Often classified as ponies, Dülmen Wild Horses actually belong to the light draft group due to their sturdy build.

• Origin: Germany (Münsterland)
• Height: 1.25–1.35 m
• Weight: 300–400 kg
• Coat: Mostly dun
• Traits: Hardy, low-maintenance, primitive type
• Use: Leisure and nature conservation projects

Hucul (Carpathian Pony)

The Hucul originates from the Carpathians and is a very robust and frugal breed, often used in mountainous regions.

• Origin: Carpathians (Eastern Europe)
• Height: 1.32–1.45 m
• Weight: 400–500 kg
• Coat: Mostly dun or bay
• Traits: Sure-footed, strong, versatile
• Use: Trail riding, mountain work horse

Mérens (Ariégeois Pony)

The Mérens is an elegant light draft breed from the Pyrenees, distinguished by its striking black coat.

• Origin: France (Pyrenees)
• Height: 1.45–1.55 m
• Weight: 400–600 kg
• Coat: Black
• Traits: Harmonious, strong, resilient
• Use: Leisure, driving, mountain work

Black Forest Horse (lighter type)

Although the Black Forest Horse is often classified as medium-heavy, lighter representatives of this breed are ideal for leisure and driving.

• Origin: Black Forest, Germany
• Height: 1.50–1.60 m
• Weight: 500–700 kg
• Coat: Dark chestnut to black-brown with a light mane
• Traits: Elegant, strong, versatile
• Use: Leisure riding, logging, driving

Heavy Draft Horse Breeds

Heavy draft horses are the powerhouses among horses. With their massive build, they were originally bred for the toughest tasks — from agriculture to forestry and transport.

• Build: Massive with broad chest, powerful legs, and strong muscles
• Height: Usually over 1.60 m
• Weight: 700–1,200 kg (some even heavier)
• Main uses: Farming, logging, carriage driving, parades

Shire Horse

The Shire Horse is the tallest horse breed in the world and comes from England. Its imposing height and gentle nature make it truly eye-catching.

• Origin: England
• Height: 1.70–2.00 m
• Weight: 800–1,200 kg
• Coat: Bay, black, or grey with white markings
• Traits: Massive build, feathered legs, gentle temperament
• Use: Formerly a draft horse, now for shows and leisure driving

Clydesdale

This Scottish breed is impressive not only for its size but also for its long feathered legs. The Clydesdale is one of the most famous draft breeds in the world.

• Origin: Scotland
• Height: 1.65–1.80 m
• Weight: 800–1,000 kg
• Coat: Bay and chestnut with prominent white markings
• Traits: Elegant build, long legs with heavy feathering
• Use: Primarily for carriage and show use

Percheron

The Percheron, a French breed, is known for its elegant appearance and immense strength. These horses combine power and beauty.

• Origin: France
• Height: 1.60–1.80 m
• Weight: 700–1,000 kg
• Coat: Mostly grey, sometimes black
• Traits: Well-proportioned, powerful yet graceful
• Use: Driving, farm work, and exhibitions

➡️ Video tip: Percheron – The One-Horse Power Powerhouse

‍Discover the impressive Percheron, one of the strongest and most elegant draft horse breeds in the world. With their immense power and graceful frame, they are truly built for strength.

Belgian Draft Horse

The Belgian Draft Horse is among the heaviest and strongest cold-blooded breeds in the world. With its powerful muscles, it stands as a true symbol of strength and work ethic.

• Origin: Belgium‍
• Height: 1.60–1.70 m‍
• Weight: 900–1,200 kg‍
• Colors: Bay, chestnut, grey
• ‍Traits: Massive build, immense strength‍
• Use: Agriculture, logging, and traditional parades

Black Forest Horse (Schwarzwälder Kaltblut)

Also known as the "Black Forest Chestnut", this elegant draft horse from the Black Forest region is admired for its dark, glossy coat and light-colored mane. Renowned for its willingness to work and calm nature.

• Origin: Black Forest, Germany‍
• Height: 1.50–1.60 m‍
• Weight: 500–700 kg‍
• Colors: Dark chestnut to black-brown with a flaxen mane‍
• Traits: Noble and powerful, very level-headed‍
• Use: Logging horse, carriage horse, leisure partner

South German Coldblood (Süddeutsches Kaltblut)

This robust breed from Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg is one of Germany’s most well-known cold-blooded horses. It is valued for its versatility and friendly character.

• Origin: Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, Germany‍
• Height: 1.60–1.70 m‍
• Weight: 700–900 kg‍
• Colors: Bay, chestnut, black‍
• Traits: Strong build, gentle nature‍
• Use: Agricultural work, driving horse, leisure riding

➡️ Videotipp: Experience the impressive stallions of the 70th South German Coldblood Stallion Licensing in Munich-Riem, held in November 2024.

Noriker (Noriker Horse)

This Austrian draft breed has a long tradition and has been bred in the Alpine region for centuries. The Noriker is known for its sure-footedness and versatility.

• Origin: Austria
• Height: 1.55–1.65 m
• Weight: 600–800 kg
• Coat Colors: Black, bay, chestnut, spotted tobiano
• Traits: Sure-footed, compact, robust
• Use: Agriculture, logging, traditional festivals

Rhineland Draft (Rheinisch‑German Draft Horse)

The Rhineland Draft Horse is a robust and versatile cold‑blooded breed mainly bred in North Rhine‑Westphalia. These horses are known for their strength and reliability, especially in farming and forestry work.

• Origin: Germany (Rhineland)
• Height: 1.60–1.65 m
• Weight: 700–900 kg
• Coat Colors: Mostly bay and chestnut
• Traits: Strong build, calm temperament
• Use: Agriculture, forestry, driving and leisure

Suffolk Punch

One of the oldest British cold‑blooded breeds, the Suffolk Punch is famous for its uniform chestnut coat.

• Origin: England
• Height: 1.60–1.70 m
• Weight: 700–900 kg
• Coat: Always chestnut
• Traits: Compact build, gentle nature
• Use: Agriculture, carriage driving

Ardennes

The Ardennes is one of the oldest draft breeds, known for its strength and endurance.

• Origin: France and Belgium
• Height: 1.50–1.65 m
• Weight: 800–1,000 kg
• Coat Colors: Bay, chestnut, grey
• Traits: Compact, muscular, resilient
• Use: Logging, agricultural work

Comtois

The Comtois is a French draft breed valued for its agility and strength.

• Origin: France
• Height: 1.50–1.65 m
• Weight: 700–900 kg
• Coat Colors: Bay, chestnut
• Traits: Strong legs, resilient
• Use: Logging, farm work

Jutland

The Jutland is the oldest Danish horse breed, originally bred for agricultural work.

• Origin: Denmark
• Height: 1.55–1.65 m
• Weight: 700–900 kg
• Coat: Chestnut with a light mane
• Traits: Solid build, reliable
• Use: Agriculture, driving

Care and Keeping of Draft Horses

Feeding: 

Despite their size, draft horses are often easy keepers, meaning they require relatively little feed compared to other breeds. Too much energy intake can quickly lead to overweight problems.

• Forage: High‑quality hay is essential and should always be available. Draft horses typically need 1.5–2% of their body weight in forage per day.
• Concentrates: Only necessary in moderation and depending on workload. Horses used mainly for leisure may not need any grain at all.
• Minerals: A sufficient mineral supply is important to support joints and tendons.

Grooming and Maintenance:

Draft horses often have abundant feathering on the legs, especially around the fetlocks. This hair must be regularly cleaned and cared for to prevent tangles and skin issues such as scratches (mange).

• Coat Care: Regular brushing removes dirt and stimulates circulation — especially important during winter when the coat is thick.
• Feather Care: Long leg hair should be checked frequently and kept clean and dry to prevent moisture buildup.
• Hoof Care: Their heavy weight places extra stress on hooves — regular farrier visits are essential.
• Exercise: Even though draft horses were bred for work, they still need regular moderate exercise to stay fit — from driving to light field work, leisure rides or groundwork.

Note: Too little movement can lead to obesity and health issues, while too intense exercise can strain joints and tendons.

Health Considerations:

Draft horses are generally very robust, but their weight can stress joints and hooves. Regular health checks and proper maintenance are therefore crucial.

• Nutritional Problems: A balanced diet helps avoid obesity and metabolic diseases like laminitis.
• Joint Health: With age, draft horses may be more prone to joint issues, so workloads should be balanced.
• Vaccinations & Deworming: Routine veterinarian visits are essential for long‑term health.

Draft Horses in Modern Society

Tradition and Cultural Heritage

Draft horses are stars of many traditional events. Whether at historical parades, harvest festivals, or holiday carriage rides, their imposing presence always attracts attention. Breeds like the Black Forest Horse or South German Coldblood are often featured in such events.

Example: Celebrations like Munich’s Oktoberfest, where beautifully decorated draft horses pull traditional carriages.

Logging and Environmental Work

In forestry, draft horses are used as logging horses to extract felled trees. Their work limits soil damage compared to heavy machinery, making them an eco‑friendly option — especially in protected or sensitive forests.
Favored breeds: Noriker and Ardennes, valued for their sure‑footedness and strength.

Leisure and Driving Sports

Draft horses are perfect for carriage driving and driving competitions. Their calm demeanor and immense strength make them popular partners for weddings, parades, and competitions.

• Driving Sports: Draft horses demonstrate power and elegance in harness classes.
• Leisure: Their calm nature also makes them suitable for riders of all levels, including beginners.

Therapy and Education

Thanks to their gentle temperament, draft horses are increasingly used in equine‑assisted therapy. Their size may seem intimidating at first, but their calmness quickly builds trust — especially for children and people with disabilities.

• Uses: Hippotherapy, therapeutic riding, educational programs, holiday camps
• Benefits: Stability and calm support participants’ confidence and safety

Film and Advertising

With their striking appearance, draft horses are often stars in films, commercials and shows. Breeds like the Shire Horse and Clydesdale are frequently used to symbolize strength, elegance and tradition.

Example: The famous Budweiser Clydesdales, known worldwide as iconic representatives of strength and heritage.

Preservation and Breeding for the Future

In modern society, preserving draft breeds is a high priority. With machines replacing horses in agriculture and transport, many draft breeds faced the risk of extinction. Thanks to the dedication of breeding associations, stud farms and horse enthusiasts, there’s hope for a sustainable future for these gentle giants.

Stud Farms as Centers of Conservation

Renowned stud farms play a key role in maintaining and promoting draft breeds by combining decades of breeding expertise with modern knowledge.

Marbach State Stud

As the oldest state stud farm in Germany, Marbach has a strong focus on breeding the Black Forest Horse.

• Offerings: Stallion shows, foal auctions and breeder consultations
• Significance: A leading institution in preserving traditional horse breeds in Germany

Moritzburg State Stud

This Saxon stud farm is renowned for breeding Heavy Warmbloods, draft horses, and Haflingers.Special feature: Presentation of breeding successes at events such as the stallion parade.Contribution: Promotion of genetic diversity and education of breeders.

North Rhine-Westphalian State Stud Warendorf
The Warendorf stud supports the breeding of the Rhenish-German Coldblood and offers:

• Professional support for breeders
• Training opportunities in equine management
• Stallion performance tests to ensure breeding quality

FAQ´s

What are coldblood horses and why are they called that?
Coldblood horses are breeds known for their calm and composed temperament. The term “cold” refers not to their body temperature, but to their steady nature, especially compared to the lively Thoroughbreds and versatile Warmbloods.

How do coldblood horses differ from warmbloods?
Coldbloods are heavier and more muscular, with a calm temperament – ideal for draft work and heavy labor. Warmbloods are lighter, more athletic, and commonly used in various equestrian sports.

Which coldblood breeds are black?
Famous black coldblood breeds include the Black Forest Horse (Schwarzwälder Kaltblut) and the Shire Horse. Both are known for their dark coats and impressive presence.

How much does a coldblood horse weigh?
Depending on the breed, a coldblood horse weighs between 400 kg (light types) and 1,200 kg (heavy types).

Which coldblood breeds are suitable for carriage driving?
Top carriage horse breeds include:

• Shire Horse
• Belgian Draft
• Clydesdale
• Black Forest Horse

How old do coldblood horses get?
Coldbloods typically live 20 to 25 years, depending on their care and usage.

Are coldblood horses suitable for leisure riding?
Yes, thanks to their gentle nature and steadiness, coldblood horses are excellent leisure partners — especially for beginners.