Shire

The Shire is certainly the largest and most magnificent of all the British horses exported to Australia. Its descendents can be traced back to the Great Horse of England whose strength was legendary.

The Shire was able to carry a soldier and his armor weighing over 400 pounds into battle although it was never used as a military mount in Australia.

Possessing strength, soundness, stamina, and a good temperament the Shire became an integral part of daily life in Australia. Its great weight and strength allowed the efficient shipping of goods to and from the docks and railways prior to mechanization.

Currently the horse is bred and kept for use in agricultural exhibitions related to farm work and operations. The Shire is quite docile and can be seen at most agricultural shows as it is a favorite with the crowds.

The Shire is likely the largest of draft horses standing 17.3 hands high. It is generally coloured in bay, brown, black and gray with white markings.

The Shire’s head appears smaller in proportion to the body size but considering its immense body is not out of proportion. The alert and prominent eyes are set far apart on the forehead. Their nostrils are thin and wide. The ears are long, lean and sharp. The neck is long, muscular and slightly arched. The withers are quite wide which is of course to be expected on such a large horse having deep and wide shoulders. The legs are short and distinctively muscled, and have feathers below the knees and hocks. The cannons long and the Shire hooves sound.