Last updated: 3 July 2026

Horse breeds

Clydesdale

A heavy draft horse with a somewhat lighter build than many other heavy breeds.

Origin
Scotland
Character
gentle and willing
For beginners
Yes, suitable
Clydesdale

Origin

The Clydesdale originally comes from Scotland. A heavy draft horse with a somewhat lighter build than many other heavy breeds. Notable for the feathering on the legs and the high leg action.

Appearance and character

In-app indicators

Dressage
Jumping
Own mind
Sweet
People-oriented

These are simplified app indicators, not fixed breed laws. Every horse is different.

Good for beginners?

With a gentle, people-oriented character, the Clydesdale is often a suitable choice for beginner riders, always with good guidance.

Did you know?

The Clydesdale is one of the best-known draft horses in the world.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Clydesdale come from?

The Clydesdale originally comes from Scotland. A heavy draft horse with a somewhat lighter build than many other heavy breeds.

What is the character of the Clydesdale?

A heavy draft horse with a somewhat lighter build than many other heavy breeds. Notable for the feathering on the legs and the high leg action.

Is the Clydesdale good for beginners?

With a gentle, people-oriented character, the Clydesdale is often a suitable choice for beginner riders, always with good guidance.

Can I mix the Clydesdale with another breed?

Yes. In the HorseJournal Breed Mixer you pick the Clydesdale and a second breed, and the app creates your own dream breed with a name, a trilingual profile and an illustration.

Breed Mixer

Mix the Clydesdale with another breed

Pick two real breeds and HorseJournal creates your own dream breed. Below are two examples of a cross with the Clydesdale. In the app you name your dream breed yourself, get the full trilingual profile, save it to your horse and make your own share card.

Cross of the Clydesdale with the Arabian
Clydesdale × Arabian
Cross of the Clydesdale with the Irish Cob / Gypsy Cob
Clydesdale × Irish Cob / Gypsy Cob