Shire

Breed history

The Shire descends from the medieval English 'Great Horse' used in war and heavy work. The English Cart Horse Society founded its studbook in 1878 and became the Shire Horse Society in 1884. The breed served breweries, transport and agriculture.

Genetics & colouring

The population is small and the breed is classed as endangered, so breeders monitor relatedness. Typical traits are massive build and heavy feathering; as in other draught breeds, the inherited glycogen-storage disorder PSSM occurs and can be detected by a genetic test.

Is this breed right for me?

• What will I use the horse for – leisure, sport, driving, work?
• Do its size and temperament suit my experience and build?
• Do I have suitable stabling, grazing and time for daily care?
• Will I arrange a vet pre-purchase examination?

Care considerations – general

Every horse needs vet-guided parasite control, vaccinations, dental checks, hoof care and feeding matched to its workload and condition. Breed alone does not determine an individual horse's needs.

General information, not veterinary advice. Consult your vet or an equine nutritionist.