Special Sub-Topic: Irish Draft/Draught Click Here To Play: Irish Draft/Draught

Today, the Irish Draft/Draught is _____ than its ancestors.

Lighter. Today, these horses are normally used as riding horses.

What other breed is the Irish Draft/Draught often crossed with?

Thoroughbred. Irish Drafts/Draughts are crossed with Thoroughbreds to produce good competition horses.

At the end of the 19th century, what draft breed was introduced to the Irish Draft/Draught, but later blamed for poor conformation below the knees?

Clydesdale. The Clydesdale was introduced to improve the draft qualities of the Irish Draft/Draught. The poor conformation and also lack of stamina have been largely bred out.

In appearance, there is sometimes a _____ ______ on a well-set neck.

Roman nose. The head should look very intelligent.

In conformation, the shoulders should be _____ and the barrel and quarters _____.

powerful, muscular. The legs should be clean, with a short cannon bone and muscular second thigh and forearm.

Is the Irish Draft/Draught considered a draft horse?

Yes, although they are lighter than a typical draft horse. The term "Draft" can be confusing in this horse's name. The Irish Draft/Draught is generally lighter than a typical draft horse.

Is the Irish Draft/Draught just another name for the Irish Hunter?

No, but the Irish Draft/Draught helped form the Irish Hunter. Technically, the Irish Hunter isn't even a breed! It is only half-bred. The English Thoroughbred and the Irish Draft/Draught crossed to make this "breed".

What are the most common coat colors of the Irish Draft/Draught?

Bay, Chestnut, and Gray. The Irish Draft/Draught originates in Ireland and can grow to anywhere from 15.3 to 17 hands.

What part of Ireland did the Irish Draft/Draught originate from?

West. The COnnemara Pony originates in the East.

What is the Irish Draft's/Draught's disposition normally like?

Easy-going and sociable. The Irish Draft/Draught is a nice breed, making it a good first horse for older, taller people. (Most of info provided by The Encyclopedia of Horses and Ponies by Tamsin Pickeral, some provided by Breeds of Draft Horses by S.R. Speelman.)