Clydesdale horse breed: description of Scottish heavy trucks and their content

Clydesdale horses are considered giants of the equestrian world. These giants from Scotland are still used in agriculture to transport heavy loads. In the 70s of the last century, the livestock worldwide was reduced to almost 900 individuals. Today, all possible measures are being taken to revive the once popular variety of animals.

History of the breed

Clydesdale breed was obtained by crossing local mares with horses from Holland. Stallions were brought to Scotland by Duke Hamilton IV in the 18th century. Large and strong animals were very popular among the population.The animals were distinguished by good he alth and extreme endurance.

Gradually, giants became widespread not only in Scotland and England, but also outside the United Kingdom. Horses were even included in the stud book. Gradually, the animals became even more powerful. The development was influenced by regular crossing with English draft breeds.

In the early 19th century, more than 20,000 Clydesdale horses were exported from the country. Hardy giants were appreciated in Europe, the United States and Australia.

During the First World War, Scottish heavy trucks were in demand in the army. But with the development of technological progress and the advent of horseless carriages, interest in animals began to disappear. Clydesdale horses are on the brink of extinction.

The revival of the breed was facilitated by programs adopted at the state level and the efforts of enthusiasts. Now the number of heavy trucks has increased to 5 thousand. And in Scotland, giants are considered historical value.

Lifestyle in nature

For successful breeding of the Clydesdale breed, it is important to understand what affects the condition of horses in nature:

1. Animals need fresh air. In adverse conditions, the immunity of horses will weaken. The optimum ambient temperature for keeping heavy trucks is 15 °C.
2. High humidity leads to diseases.
3. Sunshine is vital for giants. Ultraviolet rays help fight microbes, absorb vitamins and activate physiological processes. But extreme heat can lead to heatstroke. Therefore, it is important to organize shaded areas for relaxing in hot weather.
4. Clydesdale horses are easier to go without food, but need plenty of fluids regularly.

The combination of all factors will benefit animal he alth.

Description and characteristics of the Clydesdale horse

A distinctive feature of the breed is the large size of the horse. The height of an adult stallion reaches 1.8 meters, and the weight approaches 1 ton. The composition of the Clydesdales is harmonious. Distinctive Features:

1. Heavy trucks have a long head, dilated nostrils and a large forehead.
2. Muscular body is slightly shortened, straight legs are decorated with lush friezes.
3. Scots can boast of a luxurious mane and a thick and long tail.
4. The color of the horses is bay with spots. Often there are specimens of red and roan color. Gray varieties are considered a rare exception.

Animals are calm and good-natured. Horse breeders call Clydesdale phlegmatic. Bright appearance contributes to the fact that horses are attracted to participate in parades and reviews of the royal guards. Aristocratic horses often accompany nobles on trips.

Pros and cons

Big and hardy animals breeders use as improvers of other breeds. The blood of tireless natives of Scotland made it possible to ennoble the qualities of trotters and draft horses.

Pros and consPeaceful character and devotion to the ownersgood moveExtraordinary performanceTolerance of different climatic conditionsSleek and elegant lookWeaknesses in the structure - a soft back combined with flat ribs, as well as a shallow bodyDemanding to the conditions of detention - temperature, lighting and fresh airThe need to purchase quality food

The advantages of the breed are obvious. Heavy trucks continue to be used in agriculture. Hardy animals are especially useful in mountainous areas, forests, where there is no way to attract special equipment.

Maintenance and nutrition

High humidity and dampness adversely affect horses. Poor living conditions often cause disease. In the stable, they even advise you to install a thermometer and monitor the microclimate in the stall. In cold regions, paddocks must be insulated, and if necessary, a heating system is installed.

A spacious room is chosen to keep the Clydesdale breed. The floors are covered with straw or sawdust. Horse Care:

1. Daily outdoor walks.
2. Examination and cleaning of hooves after exercise.
3. Swimming at least 2 times a week in summer.
4. Regular brushing of mane and tail.

The Clydesdales need to drink plenty of water. The norm is the consumption of 70 liters of water during the day. The food consists of fresh greens in summer and hay in winter. Grains are added to the diet, as well as vegetables and fruits. Periodically, horses are allowed to eat sugar in small quantities. Vitamin supplements are good for animals.

Breeding and reproduction

For mating, they usually choose the time in spring or early summer. Then the foal will be born in the next warm season. Kids benefit from the sun and an abundance of fresh greenery. For mating, a mare is chosen that is larger than a stallion.

For breeding, animals are suitable from the age of 3 years, when the process of puberty is completed. Reproduction occurs both naturally and with the help of artificial insemination methods.

Diseases

Like horses of other breeds, Clydesdales are prone to various ailments. Intestinal tract lesions and hoof and joint problems are the most common. You can identify a sick animal by restless behavior, a sharp drop in activity and a dull coat.

To make a correct diagnosis, check the temperature and pulse. If necessary, send blood for analysis. Treatment methods are best left to the veterinarian. Each horse develops pathology differently.

Large, hardy and at the same time beautiful horses of the Clydesdale breed were already on the verge of extinction. Scottish heavy trucks have been preserved thanks to the efforts of enthusiasts. Animals are valued all over the world.

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