When trying to tell the difference between a Shire Horse and a Clydesdale, they often look the same to normal people. After all, the two breeds are cousins! But is there any notable difference between a Sharma and a Clydesdale? The truth is: despite their similarities, these two breeds are quite unique! Let’s delve into the key differences between these two breeds.
Key Differences Between Shire Horses and Clydesdale Horses
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The secret to distinguishing these gigantic workhorses from one another is their coat markings. The Clydesdale has distinct white markings all over the body with white hairs scattered throughout the coat. Sharmas are mostly one solid color with white markings on the legs and face. However, this is not the only difference between Sharmas and Clydesdales. But that’s not all.
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Check out the other differences between the Sharma and Clydesdale below.
Shire Horses vs Clydesdales: Physical Characteristics
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Shires and Clydesdales are of strong build and height. In fact, they both top the list of the largest horses in the world! Draft horses like the Shire and Clydesdale are bred specifically for hard work. Unlike thoroughbreds and quarter horses, these breeds are built for endurance rather than speed. At a sharp angle to the hock joint, the space between the parallel bones of the leg is narrower, which is what is needed for both.
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Shires and Clydesdales are big and muscular, with broad chests and thick legs making them two of the strongest horses in the world. However, one of these horses is usually bigger than the other, and that’s not the only difference between them!
Defining the Physical Characteristics of Sharma
In addition to their fur markings, Share horses can also be identified by their large size, with the average height for the breed being 68 inches and a whopping 2,200 pounds! Shire horses are the largest horse breed in the world. Shires tend to carry their head higher, have a shorter back, and have a more defined topline of the body.
This breed also tends to have a more impressive hip angle. This is because the tail is set higher than Clydesdale. Sharmas also have wider chest and tend to appear taller.
Defining the physical characteristics of Clydesdale
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While a Clydesdale is usually smaller than a Shire, it’s far from small! Clydesdales are the second largest horse breed in the world, averaging 68 inches tall. However, they tend to be much lighter, averaging around 1,907 pounds. Still, the Clydesdales are stronger! Clydesdales often show ideal hock angulation and more prominent narrow, parallel leg characteristics. Clydesdales also have more prominent high hocks and longer leg bones.
In addition to their distinctive white markings, Clydesdales also have finer plumage. Meaning, the thicker and longer hair around the hoof is finer than the Shire hair.
Shire Horses vs Clydesdales: Behavior and Temperament
Like many working breeds, Shires and Clydesdales are known for their calm demeanor and gentle nature. Both breeds are the very definition of the word workhorse and are widely regarded as stable, dependable and easygoing. Neither of these horses likes to be bored, and are happiest when they have work to do!
However, like all horses, Shires and Clydesdales have their own personalities!
Sharma’s expected behavior and temperament
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The Shire is a calm, collected horse that is not easily startled. Shires are equally suitable for pulling extremely heavy loads or casual afternoon rides. This breed is a great mount for beginners, as the Shires seem to take care to put their riders at ease. They are laid back, respond to orders dutifully, and have a strong work ethic.
Shires are fiercely loyal to their human owners, making them one of the easiest horse breeds to train. Eager to perform well, their docile demeanor is the epitome of “Gentle Giant!”
Expected Behavior and Temperament in Clydesdale
Although Clydesdales are known as a cold-blooded breed, that doesn’t mean they’re cold! The term refers to their calm and steady temperament compared to more irritable and highly nervous breeds. The Clydesdale is a calm, level-headed horse who is both dependable and loyal to his master.
Although as determined as Shires are, Clydesdales tend to be more energetic and playful. These horses are natural performers and really enjoy parades or competitions. Easygoing and obedient, Clydesdales know the difference between work and play!
Sharma and Clydesdale Horses: They Share a Centuries-Old History
Sharma dates back to 1066, the time of William the Conqueror, whose historic victories landed him on the English throne! Thought to be bred as war horses, the Shire’s steady disposition and strong build make the Shire the perfect draft horse. The breed has been a necessary part of farming and farming for centuries due to their ease of training and strong work ethic.
The Shire became so popular that the breed was exported to many other countries including Australia, the United States and New Zealand.
How Clydesdale Saved the Shire
The breed is also popular closer to home. In Scotland, the Clydesdale was originally developed by selective breeding of the Shire with other types of horses. In 1826, the Clydesdale was officially recognized as a distinct breed, along with the Shire. However, the number of Shire breeds gradually decreased and they were almost extinct. In the 1960’s, breeders introduced Clydesdales to increase their numbers.
Like Frodo Baggins in The Lord of the Rings, the Clydesdales are back in the Shire once again!
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