Unique Characteristics of the Shire Horse

The most outstanding characteristics of the shire horse are its imposing height and extreme strength, traits documented both in record books and anecdotally. For example, in the 1920s, a pair of shires reportedly pulled a load of more than 45 tons, though the exact weight could not be determined because it exceeded the scale’s capacity.

Bred for its size, strength, and easygoing demeanor, the shire horse was used extensively to pull carts of ale from breweries to public houses. Before World War I, these gentle giants commonly served as farm horses, pulling wagons and working in fields. When coal was a major source of heat and light, shires were employed to pull enormous coal wagons over rough roads.

Today, the shire horse is still popular for pulling vehicles, such as sightseeing wagons, and many equestrians enjoy riding the docile breed for pleasure. They are an environmentally friendly alternative to tractors on small farms and are still used in logging operations. They also are a popular promotional tool for modern-day beer brewers, some of whom are again making deliveries by horse and wagon.

Today the Shire Horse is in almost every part of the Equine World From Western Pleaser, Hunter Jumping, and Dressage.

The breed also is well-known for its easygoing nature. Shires don’t spook easily. This trait likely arose from the breed’s original use confidently carrying soldiers in heavy armor into loud, dangerous battle situations.

This is the #1 Reason Shires make great family horses. They have a very caring nature and want to be apart of your family. They love to please and work hard. But most of all they love their human partners in life.