A Bulky Belgian for an Aide

 

Belgian Horses are perfect for the task of drawing heavy loads.  It is huge and significantly muscled which allows it to pull weighty things.  Their specialty lies on their power instead of speed.  This is the reason why they are wonderful as draft horses.

 

Origin

As suggested by the name, this breed of horse comes from Belgium.  Belgians are descendants of the much older Flemish Horses.  They are often times pertained to as Brabant.  It is also believed that they are offsprings of the Forest Horse breed which is one of the first four horses to roam the earth.

 

Record Holder

Belgian Horses are considerably bigger than we perceive horses to be.   It can weigh as heavy as a ton which is equivalent to over 2000 pounds.  Radar, a Belgian horse, holds the world record of largest horse.  Radar stands at 6 feet and seven inches (equivalent to 19.35 hands) and weighs over 2400 pounds.  However, despite this impressive current record, yet another Belgian holds the title of largest horse in history.  This horse’s name was Brooklyn Supreme who weighed at 3200 pounds.  It undeniable that this breed is of the large kind.

 

Physical Features

Belgians have short heads which is supported by muscled necks.  Its coat is usually chestnut, red or roan (brownish with white and gray specks) in color while the thick and abundant mane and tail are flaxen (yellowish brown).  Its body is massive and full of strength.  This breed’s legs have hair that feather around the bottom.  Going further below, it is observable that this breed’s hooves are smaller than most horses.  This feature allows them to breeze through uneven and tight areas of lands.  Everything about this horse gives us an image of strength and endurance during hard labour.

 

Temperament

One advantageous thing about Belgians is that they are mild and meek but not at the expense of hard work.  As a matter of fact, they enjoy it well when they are at work.  When it comes to farming, they can greatly help in plowing the fields due to their stamina and strength.  This is why amidst the technological advances that we see today, Belgians are still used as aides in traditional farming all over the world.

 

Uses

Possessing the qualities of draft horses, Belgian Horses clearly have to be able to plow, and pull coaches, wagons and sleighs.  Other than the usual tasks, this breed is also capable of show jumping, western riding and even equestrian sporting.  Even though they are not as polished and sophisticated as Arabians are, they can be incredible comrades to us, all thanks to their remarkable obedience and power.