It was in Ireland that the Irish Draught horse first appeared as a distinct breed. It has a reputation for being adaptable, powerful, and mild-mannered. These horses are bred for a wide variety of equestrian uses, but their primary purpose is in agriculture, particularly as working horses on farms. Among the most distinguishing features of the Irish Draught horses are: - Irish Draught horses are built for hard work, such as plowing fields or pulling heavy loads, due to their strength and stamina. - Extremely adaptable, these horses thrive in a wide range of equestrian activities from show jumping and dressage to eventing and even hunting. They are also bred with other horse breeds in an effort to improve the overall species. - Irish Draught horses have a laid-back and sociable demeanor that makes them great for riding in a variety of settings. They have a reputation for being calm and easygoing. - Conformationally, these horses are typically of good size and proportion, with strong backs and healthy legs. Their broad, short head and large, expressive eyes set them apart. - Coat Color: Irish Draught horses come in various coat colors, including gray, bay, and chestnut, among others. The breed's history can be traced back several centuries in Ireland, where they were developed to meet the agricultural and transportation needs of the time. Despite the fact that their use in farming has decreased as a result of mechanization, Quarter Horses remain a popular breed thanks to their many desirable qualities and their role in the development of other horse breeds. Irish horses come in a variety of forms, including the more common Irish Draught and the more modern Irish Sport Horse. Incorporating the Draught's strength and temperament with the agility of lighter horse breeds, this crossbreed is bred for performance in show jumping, eventing, and dressage.

"The Irish draught horse is unique in the world and an icon in the Irish landscape. The contributors trace its evolution as a working horse through to its almost overnight disappearance with 1960s mechanisation. Illustrated with wonderful images, this will be the cherished book of record for this subject."--BOOK JACKET.

"The development of the Irish Draught is traced from the seventeenth century, when the Irish Hobby was transformed into a warm blooded light draught horse. The fortunes of the evolving breed are followed as political, economic and social developments impacted upon horses and horse breeding. The future of the breed in the new millennium is assessed and blood lines and pedigrees are discussed. The importance of Irish Draught blood in the breeding of show jumpers is emphasised." "This is a book for all who are interested in Irish history, in the equine heritage of the country and in the development of a distinctive breed of fine horses. It should also appeal to those concerned with the historical and developing geography of animal breeds."--BOOK JACKET.Title Summary field provided by Blackwell North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved