Buyer question
Is a Clydesdale horse good for beginners?
Yes: our Animal Library rates the Clydesdale horse 4 out of 5 for beginners (gentle, but huge).
Source: the Clydesdale horse page in the Everybarn Animal Library. Clydesdale horse in the Animal Library
The detail
A Scottish draft horse from Lanarkshire, bred to haul coal and farm loads, known for its high-stepping action and white feathered legs. Clydesdales are gentle and willing, but their feather and size bring real care demands.
- Temperament
- Gentle, willing, calm
- Best fit
- Driving, pleasure riding
- Trainability
- 4 out of 5 (Willing and kind)
- Upkeep
- 5 out of 5 (Feather care, big feet)
- Energy
- 2 out of 5 (Steady, lively action)
What to weigh
Heavy feather hides mites and skin disease and is linked to chronic progressive lymphedema. Size means oversized stalls, trailers and tack.