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Russian Heavy Draft Horse
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Russian Heavy Draft Horse

Country Of Origin Russia
History and Background The foundation of the breed is the native Ukrainian breeds crossed with Ardennes, Belgian Draft and Orlov Trotter and systematic breeding began in the mid 19th century.
The Russian Heavy Draft was introduced at the Paris Exhibition in 1900 and quickly the two World Wars almost wiped the breed out, however by 1937 a small stock of purebreds were isolated and kept safe. Unlike most draft breeds, the Russian isn’t overly large, but they are quite muscled.
The Russian Heavy Draft has been used to improve agricultural stock. This breed is also known for its good capacities at producing milk, which is fermented and drunk (in Russian it is called kumys). Breed records and information are kept by the All-Russian Institute of Horsebreeding (VNIIK). Dr. Irina Sorokina has long been in charge of draft breeds there.
There are three types found within the breed and another group that is not as uniform and generally comprised of trotter types.
Novoaleksandrov type – Smaller with a massive body.
Ural type – Larger with a shorter body, longer legs with more feathering.
Massive type – Largest of the types and coarser in confirmation.
Use Today Draft, Agriculture, Transportation, Milk production
Height 14.1 - 15 hands (56.4 - 60 inches)
Colour Bay, Chestnut
Characteristics The Russian Heavy Draft is usually short and muscular, with thick manes and tails and legs that are lightly feathered. This breed is known for having excellent traction when pulling weight because of its short legs. The Russian Heavy Draft has a neck that is thick and well crested, and has a docile temperament. It is agile and energetic, and is good for rough terrain. It is an easy keeper that is tolerant of the cold, and has been known to be able to pull more weight (relative to its body mass) than any of the other breeds developed during the Soviet period. These horses reach physical maturity at an earlier date than most horses.
Personality and Temperament Strong, true and willing.
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