Origin & History
Developed on small Irish farms as an all-purpose horse capable of plowing fields, pulling carts, and being ridden to hounds, the Irish Draught nearly disappeared after mechanization but was preserved through dedicated breeding programs starting in the 1970s.
Appearance
Irish Draughts are strong yet elegant, with clean legs, good bone, and a kind, intelligent eye — lighter and more athletic in build than most other draft breeds.
Temperament
Sensible, bold, and good-natured, Irish Draughts are prized as a foundation for the Irish Sport Horse, valued for adding substance and a calm mind to sport horse crosses.
Crossing Irish Draughts with Thoroughbreds is the classic recipe behind the Irish Sport Horse, a top international show jumping breed.
Common Uses
Show jumping, foxhunting, and as a foundation breed for sport horse crosses.
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