Скачать или смотреть Russian Heavy Draft Horse Pros and Cons - Russian Heavy Draft Horse Advantages and Disadvantages

The Russian Heavy Draft Horse is a compact yet immensely strong breed developed in Russia for agriculture, transport, and industrial work. Known for its exceptional pulling power, endurance, and calm nature, this draught horse is widely used in rural areas for both fieldwork and haulage, and is also admired for its ability to thrive in harsh climates. Despite its stocky build, it moves efficiently and is valued for its versatility and easy temperament.
Origins – Need for a National Draught Breed:
In the late 19th century, Russia faced a growing need for strong, durable draught horses suited to the country's vast farmlands and extreme weather conditions. While local horse types had strength and endurance, they lacked the muscle mass and pulling power of Western European draft breeds. To meet this need, Russian breeders initiated a focused program to develop a heavy horse that was compact, resilient, and productive.

Breeding Development (1860s–1950s):
The development of the Russian Heavy Draft began around 1860, primarily at breeding centers like Khlebnoye and Derkul studs. Breeders crossed local Russian mares—mainly from peasant and steppe stock—with imported Ardennes horses from Belgium and France. Later, Brabançon (Belgian Heavy), Percheron, and Orlov Trotter blood was also introduced to enhance strength, movement, and constitution.

By 1952, the breed was officially recognized, having met the goals of producing a compact, muscular horse with powerful hindquarters, a calm demeanor, and the ability to work efficiently in various conditions, especially cold climates.