When considering the largest horses in the world, any breed that frequently measures over 18 hands high (hh) is a strong contender. Some individuals within these heavy horse breeds can even surpass 20hh. Historically, there’s been debate over the largest horse ever recorded, often depending on whether records focus on height or weight. Notable giants include the Shire horse Sampson, foaled in 1846, who reached an astonishing 21.2½hh, and the Belgian Draft gelding Big Jake, measured at just under 20.3hh in 2010, a Guinness World Record holder.
The following five breeds are renowned for consistently producing some of the largest horses: Shire, Clydesdale, Belgian Draft, Percheron, and Suffolk.
Shire Horse
The Shire horse is celebrated for its impressive height and considerable strength, having held records for both the largest and tallest horses. Traditionally utilized as a powerful draft horse for farm work, pulling heavy loads for breweries, and towing barges, the Shire breed originated in Britain. While their heavy draft work has diminished, they are still employed in forestry, by some traditional breweries, and as leisure riding horses.
The most famous Shire was Sampson, a 19th-century giant who measured 21.2½hh and was later renamed Mammoth.
Shire horse
Clydesdale
Typically standing at least 17hh, the Clydesdale is characterized by a slightly lighter frame compared to other large breeds, contributing to its elegance and distinctive high-stepping gait. Originating from Scotland, Clydesdales have gained international fame, notably through their appearances in Budweiser commercials.
A remarkable example is Digger, a Clydesdale who measured 19.2hh. Rescued as a foal, Digger was trained as a drum horse for royal parades.
Clydesdale Horse
Belgian Draft
The Belgian Draft horse holds a place among the world’s largest horse breeds, though most commonly they reach a maximum height of 17hh. These horses are particularly recognized for their exceptional pulling power, having won numerous championships in this discipline. Belgian Draft horses were exported across Europe and to the United States, where a slightly more compact version is known as the American Brabant. While they can be ridden, they are highly valued in forestry, farm work, and even for pulling sledges.
The tallest recorded Belgian Draft was Big Jake, measuring an impressive 20.2¾hh.
Belgian Draft Horse
Percheron
The Percheron, a draft horse breed originating from France, might surprise some as individuals can be as small as 15.2hh. However, the majority are significantly taller, and the breed has historically held records for the biggest horses. Percherons are also exceptionally strong, possessing immense pulling power. Historically, they were used for military transport, pulling stagecoaches, and for agricultural tasks. Today, they are utilized in conservation and forestry, as well as being popular riding and driving horses.
In 1915, Dr Le Gear was recorded as the world’s biggest horse, a Percheron standing 21hh and weighing 2,995lb (1,359kg).
Percheron
Suffolk Punch
Always chestnut in color (and uniquely spelled without a ‘t’), the Suffolk Punch is another established heavy horse breed from Britain, originating in the county of Suffolk. Historically used for farm work and for transporting artillery during wartime, they are now also used for riding and driving. Compared to the Clydesdale and Shire, they are slightly more compact, typically reaching a maximum of 17hh, though some individuals exceed this height. They are powerfully built and considered the oldest heavy horse breed in Britain, with roots dating back to the 16th century.
These magnificent breeds represent the pinnacle of equine size and strength, each with a rich history of working alongside humans. Their imposing stature and powerful builds are a testament to selective breeding over centuries.
