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The largest horse ever recorded was a Shire horse named Sampson, later rechristened Mammoth. Photo credit: Rachel Husband / Getty ImagesThe world's largest horse breeds have developed alongside the people who domesticated them, with each breed being selected for specific traits. Some of these large horses were bred as fearless war steeds, while others were prized as elegant carriage horses and calm riding companions.
Many of the most cherished heavy horse breeds were originally used for farm labor rather than battle or leisure. For example, Australian Draught horses played a crucial role in the early agricultural efforts of Australia, as well as in tasks such as towing barges and pulling family wagons across the countryside.
The following list highlights some of the largest horse breeds in the world. Some are renowned for their impressive muscular builds and their ability to pull heavy loads, while others are celebrated for their immense size, broad chests, and towering height measured in 'hands' (4 inches or 10 cm).
1. Shire Horse (18 to 21 hands)
The largest horse ever recorded was a Shire gelding named Sampson (later known as Mammoth), who stood at an incredible 21.5 hands and weighed nearly 3,000 pounds (1360 kg) in 1846. While most Shire horses are generally smaller, Mammoth's long-standing world record earned his breed the title of 'largest horse.'
2. Clydesdale (18 to 20 hands)
Fans of American football will instantly recognize these gentle giants from the iconic Budweiser Superbowl commercials. Their unmistakable size and feathered hooves, resembling large white socks, make Clydesdales easily identifiable to anyone, not just football enthusiasts.
3. Belgian Draft (17 to 18 hands)
Belgian Draft horses are known for being some of the most hardworking breeds on this list. They're easily recognizable due to their energetic demeanor and the feathering on their legs, much like Clydesdales.
Big Jake and Brooklyn Supreme stand out as some of the tallest Belgian Draft horses ever recorded, reaching impressive heights of 20 and 19 hands, respectively.
4. Percheron (16 to 17 hands)
The exact origins of Percheron horses are unclear, but they are named after the Perch Region of France, where they were first documented in the 17th century C.E.
These black and gray horses are famous for their broad, muscular necks and remarkable endurance, making them ideal companions for farm work.
5. Dutch Draft (16 hands, but heavier than other draft horses)
Dutch Draft horses were created through the crossbreeding of Zeeland horses and top draft breeds from Belgium between World Wars I and II. Unfortunately, like many other horse breeds, their numbers drastically declined after agriculture became more mechanized, with only about a thousand remaining in 2009.
6. Suffolk Punch (16 hands)
The Suffolk Punch horses, ancestors of the American Suffolk Punch breed, are one of the oldest horse breeds in Great Britain, dating back to the 16th century C.E.
With their sturdy build and short legs, Suffolk Punch horses were well adapted to the wet, muddy terrain of the British Isles, making them ideal for tasks like draught work, forestry, and farming.
7. American Cream Draft (15 to 16 hands)
The American Cream Draft horses, originating from Iowa, are named for their unique creamy-tan coats. This rare breed experienced a significant decline with the advent of modern farm technologies, but they still showcase their strength in horse shows today.
The largest horse breeds were bred for sheer pulling power and endurance. However, other horses are crossbred for speed and agility. Horse racing is a deeply rooted tradition in Pennsylvania, where breeders have developed a system to ensure foals are born at the start of the year. On January 1 of the following year, breeders celebrate the horses' birthdays and select a few to begin training for racing.
