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Drafts 101

7K views 28 replies 7 participants last post by  Jubilee 
#1 ·
So, as we all know I am somewhat new to the horse world. I don’t own my own horse, but have been taking lessons and I feel that I am catching on quickly. The lesson horse that I ride is a draft/paint cross; he is the sweetest horse ever and I just absolutely love him. Long before I started riding, I have always had a love for the larger horse; granted, I love all horses big and small, but I tend to favor the draft breeds mostly.

I’ve been on this site for a little while now, and I tend to get a little overwhelmed with the information pouring in here, there is so much to learn, so much to soak in. So, I’m asking for help, it’ll be awhile before I am able to buy my own horse, but at this point, I’m leaning toward a draft, or draft cross. However, like a lot of my major ‘purchases’ (for the lack of a better term) I’d like to research what I’d be getting into.

What are some of the pros and cons of owning a draft? I tend to wonder how much of all the information being exchanged on our site actually pertains to drafts. How much extra special treatment do drafts get vs. smaller horses? Do they require a special trailer, tack, hoof care, diet, treats, etc. What makes a draft good for riding? Do they tend to be more spooky, or laid back? Over all, what are their temperaments like? Do they thrive more when they are boarded outdoors, or indoors, or a combination of both? How do I know how much weight a draft can carry? How do I know what discipline would be best for a draft? Are some drafts gaited, if so, which breeds?

I know that a lot of information varies from horse to horse; I know no two are alike, but what are some of YOUR experiences with drafts? I’m really just looking for any information at all, anything you can think of that pertains to draft breeds would be a wonderful help.

Thanks everyone!
:wink:
 
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#2 ·
There are the obvious differences between the light bred and the drafts or draft crosses. If you go with a draft cross be careful what the cross is and make sure you get familiar with the horse before purchase him/her. (I own 3 horses, one being a light bred, one a draft cross and one a full draft) so I would know.

A lot of people assume that because they are getting a draft, everything will be easier because they tend to be "calmer". In a sense they are a bit easier to work with because they are cold blooded so they usually are more laid back about life. Having said that some can be very stubborn, some are also VERY mellow which makes it harder to convince them to do something. You also can get the ones get excited very easily and need an experienced hand as they will get strong or look and spook at things etc.

Because you have little experience with horses I would recommend for you to stick with a light breed. A horse that has done a lot of different things. A horse that will be easier to work with and a horse that will teach more so than be taught.

There is so much to learn about horses! give yourself a break and have fun. Learn from a seasoned horse then decide if you want to move to something bigger :)
 
#4 ·
Hehe,

I'll be honest...my first horse was a draft horse...I had very little horse experience (very little) and I was like 16 years old or something like that. My draft has treated me well. Now, I am NOT saying that you should go out and get a draft horse because they are 'great' first horses for the inexperienced! M2G has good points!! You might want to start with a smaller breed...I think it depends on the horse.

Here is my 'personal' experience with my draft.

Everything is usually more expensive. Bigger farrier bills, boarding is more, supplies are more (because I need more), food is more (once again, because I need more to keep her ideal). The vet is more, worming is more. How much more, well....my farrier does regular horses for $40, I pay $65. That's not that bad but other farriers are worse. I have to use two wormer tubes to worm her, so that's double the price of a smaller horse. I'll just say,for me, personally, a light breed horse would be alot cheaper to own in general.

It's also hard for me to find things that fit her. I usually always have to order things (tack, blankets, ect..) 87" sheets aren't found in my local feed store.

My draft horse tends to need a lot of upkeep too. I can't just let her sit in a pasture...she'd fall apart. The flies love her! Her feathers need constant care too. If you got a non feathered breed, you wouldn't have that work.

I can ride and drive her. She's much better at driving though... She very mellow, but at the same time, she has a lot of perk to get up and go. She's fun! I've also noticed that she's an eye catcher (most drafts are). I always get compliments and such...she stands out!


I love my big goofy girl...she cost alot though...I'll have her till she dies and I'll miss her soo much when she does...I enjoy her alot!

I would say that, just find a horse that you like. Find one with an attitude that you like and can deal with. Find one with movement and build that suits your needs. If it happens to be a draft, GREAT!! Just keep in mind, drafts do tend to be more expensive in care...at least, that's my experience.


And don't let them step on your foot!! OUCH!!! :oops:
 
#5 ·
Moxie said:
Thanks for the info M2G!

So, in the sense of sticking with a lighter breed, which breed (lighter) would be better suited for carrying a larger rider?
Oh sorry I missed that piece of info. If that is the reason why you are considering for a large breed, then it is a bit different. Tho there are light bred horses that are large in build that would also be suitable.

Do you know of someone who has a draft you could try? not all people who like drafts, should own one. Draft handle differently riding wise than their smaller counter part. I would make sure you are ok with their feel and handling when riding. Not all people like them.

There are full drafts that are well broke that have been up for sale.Here are a few older adds, to give you an idea.

http://horsetopia.horse-for-sale.org/classifieds/ad309952

http://horsetopia.horse-for-sale.org/classifieds/ad292809

http://www.dreamhorse.com/show_horse.php?form_horse_id=1243551
 
#6 ·
Personally I'd go with a draft cross. An Irish sport horse, a percheron/QH or /TB or something like that. The angle of their shoulder is less upright lending to a better riding horse. You get the calm disposition (usually) and smooth gaits in a smaller package that won't be as expensive. They tend to have good feet and keep weight on more easily then, say, a TB. Id go for one a little older. Maybe 15 to 18 and about 16 hands which is a reasonable height while being manageable (and mountable) Depending on how much cold blood in your cross, a 16 hand horse could hold 175 (maybe even 200) pounds, even if you bounce a bit.
 
#7 ·
flywithoutwings said:
Personally I'd go with a draft cross. An Irish sport horse, a percheron/qh or /tb or something like that. The angle of their shoulder is less upright lending to a better riding horse. You get the calm disposition (usually) and smooth gaits in a smaller package that won't be as expensive. They tend to have good feet and keep weight on more easily then, say, a tb. Id go for one a little older. Maybe 15 to 18 and about 16 hands which is a reasonable height while being manageable (and mountable) Depending on how much cold blood in your cross, a 16 hand horse could hold 175 (maybe even 200) pounds, even if you bounce a bit.
That's when getting familiar with the horse in question is very important. I don't know of a single Perch/TB cross I would ever buy and find the Irish Sport Horses very tempermental.
 
#28 ·
I have a beautiful TB/Perch cross mare, and she's wonderful. She rides and drives, and I can do just about anything with her. I've driven her out at an industrial park and gotten 18-wheelers to honk at her, and that didn't phase her. I've hit her with a gallon milk jug and she didn't flinch (I was trying to throw it over her back to see if she would spook, but I have bad aim :oops:). I've ridden her in the middle of downtown San Antonio at 4am bareback with just a bridle. She actually pooped on the sidewalk right in front of the entrance to Macy's... :lol: I wonder what they thought when they went to open the store that morning?

And on top of all of that, she's absolutely gorgeous:


 
#8 ·
Yes, as it is right now, I am a larger rider. I plan on loosing like a million pounds HOPEFULLY before buying a horse, but I am going on what I am right now. My weight isn't the only factor in wanting a draft breed, although I will admit it is at the top of my list. Just the draw I have to them, and of course wanting a horse that isn't going to buckle under my weight. lol

I ride a draft cross now, my Fritzy boy. He is wonderful, of course I am only with him for about 2 hrs every week, so, who really knows WHAT he's like. I have considered leasing him, that is still very much up in the air. Fritz is up for sale as well, and if all goes as planned, and he is still up for sale when I am looking to buy, he will be at the VERY top of my list, as I feel he would be a great companion, I would be learning everything with him, and I would already have a connection with him; it just seems like the best bet, ya know?

So, anyone know of any lighter breeds that are okay with heavier loads?
 
#10 ·
I think for the lighter breeds it is definitely a matter of the individual. A foundation type Quarter Horse witha broad chest and strong bones is a lot different from a dainty narrow one. The general rule of thumb is 20% of the horse's weight can be carried (including saddle) by the horse.
My2Geldings, the first horse I ever trotted on was a Perch/appendix (qh/tb) who was an absolute doll and started all of the adult beginners. There is also a Perch/qh cross at my barn now who packs a timid, larger woman around the hunter ring very well. My friend owns two Irish sport horses, one a 25% and one a 50% both excellent eventers at preliminary level and moving up. I've also known at least a dozen other ID crosses and only one of them would not have made my short list.
 
#11 ·
Moxie said:
I thought I would post a pic of Fritz and I

I didn't realise you had already been riding a draft cross. You most definitely know what they are like. Or least how they handle. From your initial post it didn't sound like you had had the chance to deal with heavier monkeys.

I am personally in love with them and can't see myself ever going back (I'm 5'5 and 120lbs) so it's not even a question of what suits me as a person.

There are a few of us who own and work regularly with drafts. I would also get you to go on a draft horse or a heavy horse forum and get more stories as to what others have gone thru with their beast :)
 
#12 ·
Yep, Fritzy's my boy! I haven't spent a whole lot of time on lighter breeds, what time I have spent was YEARS ago, so really I don't have much to go on as far as comparing goes... I should find a larger light breed and try one out, just so I have something to go on, however, I've pretty much made up my mind at this point; a draft is where it's at! lol
 
#13 ·
Moxie said:
Yep, Fritzy's my boy! I haven't spent a whole lot of time on lighter breeds, what time I have spent was YEARS ago, so really I don't have much to go on as far as comparing goes... I should find a larger light breed and try one out, just so I have something to go on, however, I've pretty much made up my mind at this point; a draft is where it's at! lol[/quote

I really think that it would be the best option for you. It's just finding the right one. As I posted above, there are some really nice drafts that get posted on a regular basis.
 
#14 ·
OH yea, I'm sure! I kind of 'shop' craig's list and other sites for horses, granted that probably isnt the best place to look, but it's what I have that gives me a little bit on an idea as to what I'm in for, kinda.

I think I will talk to my instructor about a lighter breed and see what she suggests. And of course the more I ride the more I will learn. You are completely right M2G when you say it's all about finding the right horse.
 
#18 ·
I own an 18 hand, 2100 lbs. Purebred Percheron gelding. I’ve had him for 9 years, got him when he was 2. Broke him to ride at age 4.

The biggest misconception about drafts, they are NOT gentle giants. Gentle giants are MADE not born. Too many people play them off as calm because they are big and that’s really not the case. They can be very spicy. It’s all about the foundation of training you give them.

They can require custom built trailers if they are the larger sized drafts. I’m looking into a custom one to buy in the next year or two.

Tack is getting easier and easier to find because more people are offering it. These are the best sites to get you started:

http://www.drafttack.com/

http://www.drafthorseclassified.com/tack.htm

http://www.montanamountainhorse.com/draft-horse-saddles/

Hoof care: farriers will likely be the hardest thing for you to find for your draft. Most farriers won’t work on them. They generally need larger rasps and nippers. I pay my farrier $100 for a trim (tip included). I also bought him a Hoof Jack with a draft horse cradle. My boy is a size 7.

Diet - there is a fantastic diet developed by Dr. Beth Valentine (wrote the book Draft Horses, an Owner’s Manual - it is the draft horse owners bible!). They need fat and they shouldn’t have any grain. Just because they are bigger doesn’t mean they eat more, they don’t. None of the draft horses I’ve been around including my own eat much more than a TB or QH. The only difference would be the serious pullers who use a lot more energy than a regular riding draft.

Regarding their temperaments - see above with the gentle giant stuff. They can be very mellow to very spicy. It really depends on the horse and it depends on the good solid foundation of groundwork and bonding that you are willing to put into the horse.
They do well indoors and outdoors and a combination of both is best. My boy is out during the day and in at night. He’s got a 12 x 20 stall. Very roomy. Two water buckets and an Amazing Graze stall toy he loves to stomp on. They can be VERY hard on gates and fences.

Rather than know what discipline a draft can do, make sure you know first what YOU want to do. Drafts can do just about anything. Trail, western, jumping, dressage, driving. It’s all up to what you want to do and how far you want to take it if you want to be competitive.

If you are interested in a draft go for it. If you get a young horse don’t expect to be riding before they are 4 years old. It’s a good way to break them down fast. If you want to ride right away, get an older horse. Get a vet check.

Here is the draft horse forum you can join and find people just talking about draft horses! They are a great group of people.

Draft horse forum
http://www.draftresource.com/chat2/index.php
 
#19 ·
Solon said:
I own an 18 hand, 2100 lbs. Purebred Percheron gelding. I’ve had him for 9 years, got him when he was 2. Broke him to ride at age 4.

The biggest misconception about drafts, they are NOT gentle giants. Gentle giants are MADE not born. Too many people play them off as calm because they are big and that’s really not the case. They can be very spicy. It’s all about the foundation of training you give them.

They can require custom built trailers if they are the larger sized drafts. I’m looking into a custom one to buy in the next year or two.

tack is getting easier and easier to find because more people are offering it. These are the best sites to get you started:

http://www.drafttack.com/

http://www.drafthorseclassified.com/tack.htm

http://www.montanamountainhorse.com/draft-horse-saddles/

Hoof care: farriers will likely be the hardest thing for you to find for your draft. Most farriers won’t work on them. They generally need larger rasps and nippers. I pay my farrier $100 for a trim (tip included). I also bought him a Hoof Jack with a draft horse cradle. My boy is a size 7.

Diet - there is a fantastic diet developed by Dr. Beth Valentine (wrote the book Draft Horses, an Owner’s Manual - it is the draft horse owners bible!). They need fat and they shouldn’t have any grain. Just because they are bigger doesn’t mean they eat more, they don’t. None of the draft horses I’ve been around including my own eat much more than a tb or qh. The only difference would be the serious pullers who use a lot more energy than a regular riding draft.

Regarding their temperaments - see above with the gentle giant stuff. They can be very mellow to very spicy. It really depends on the horse and it depends on the good solid foundation of groundwork and bonding that you are willing to put into the horse.
They do well indoors and outdoors and a combination of both is best. My boy is out during the day and in at night. He’s got a 12 x 20 stall. Very roomy. Two water buckets and an Amazing Graze stall toy he loves to stomp on. They can be VERY hard on gates and fences.

Rather than know what discipline a draft can do, make sure you know first what YOU want to do. Drafts can do just about anything. Trail, western, jumping, dressage, driving. It’s all up to what you want to do and how far you want to take it if you want to be competitive.

If you are interested in a draft go for it. If you get a young horse don’t expect to be riding before they are 4 years old. It’s a good way to break them down fast. If you want to ride right away, get an older horse. Get a vet check.

Here is the draft horse forum you can join and find people just talking about draft horses! They are a great group of people.

Draft horse forum
http://www.draftresource.com/chat2/index.php

That was a fantastic post! I hope Moxie gets a chance to read it.
 
#21 ·
Glad it was helpful! If you have anymore questions just let me know.

It's pretty cool how over the last 8 years draft tack has increased and the price is going down. You can find some really great buys on eBay. Frontier Equestrians is my fave place there to shop all things draft. Just type in draft horse and their ads will come up.

Vet stuff isn't too bad pricewise. You have to buy two tubes of wormer, but things like sedation and such aren't more (they don't get more because they are bigger) same with vaccines etc. Those are all the same. Teeth floating is the same price as a light horse.

They are really great riding. I love riding my boy. We don't do any specific discipline right now. Just basic riding, sometimes going out on the local trail and sometimes playing soccer. More and more drafts are getting into the lower levels of dressage which is pretty cool to watch.

Just take your time finding the right one for you!
 
#22 ·
Solon, do you know of a good site online that has excellent quality leather halters? One of our local stores here has a good one made by Weaver. It's a draft halter which at this point would be to big for my mare but is as good as you can get. Only issue is that it costs $80.00 which is really a fair price for the quality.

I have found many halters online but it is difficult to see the actual quality of them. I am willing to spend the 80 dollars if I know its a good quality halter but curious to know if you have a good side for a bit less. Do you find the regular nylon halters to be any good for drafts?
 
#23 ·
I've never used a leather halter in my life. I only use the webbed ones. And they work PERFECT. I got one off of eBay for I think it was $14.00 and he's still using it for his turn out halter (three years now).

I got a really nice webbed black one that I use for special stuff that I got for $25.00 online.

If I were to get a leather one it'd be fore show and it'd be the white leather ones that Percherons use - so I really have never looked into any of the leather ones.

Honestly, the webbed ones work perfectly. Here is a pic of him in his:

 
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