Shire
Animal identity

Recognize what makes this population itself.

Shires are large draft horses with substantial bodies and feathered lower legs. They worked city transport as well as farms. Mechanization reduced both markets, and numbers reached a low point during the twentieth century. Promotional hitches later helped retain public attention. The breed's size and appearance are memorable, but its working relationships explain why it existed.

Appearance introduces the animal; a registry standard explains a documented breeding population. A photograph, color or familiar informal name alone cannot establish every individual’s membership.

Recorded roles

Draft

Adult Weight

1900–2200 lbs.

Temperament

Docile

Experience Level

Intermediate

Adult Height

16.2-19.2 hands / Average 17.2 hands

Reference values from the breed’s conservation profile. Weight describes a reference animal, not a universal feeding or fitness target. Temperament varies with breeding, individual experience and handling.