The Spotted Draft Horse

Spotted drafts should have conformation which closely reflects the draft type they most resemble (Percheron/Belgian type, Suffolk type, Shire/Clydesdale type, etc.). Generally the frame should be large, supported by clean, dense bone. Short, strong, muscled forearms and thighs. Legs placed well under the horse.

Intelligent heads with active ears, powerful, arching necks which are clean cut at the throat. Shoulders tend to be upright, suitable for power rather than action. The back is short and strong. Ribs spring high from the backbone. The hindquarters are long and smooth to the root of the tail, which springs higher up than other breeds. The hip bones are wide apart smoothly covered, the croup usually level. Depth and thickness from the withers to the legs are essential and they should be as deep in the flank as over the heart.

The average height of the spotted draft is 16hh to 17hh+. Spotted drafts are most often tobianos but are sometimes overos. Any base color is acceptable, though the most popular is black, bay, and brown. The spotted draft has a splendid disposition and an easy temperament. It exhibits a ready willingness to work, great endurance and the quality, known as "heart," which is well known. These horses are used for agricultural work, pleasure driving, parades, commercial carriages, showing, logging and riding.

North American Spotted Draft Horse Association

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