The World’s Tallest Horse Breeds: What You Need To Know

When you think of horses, you probably don’t immediately envision giant four-legged creatures towering over their human counterparts.

But believe it or not, there are a number of tallest horse breeds that have been bred to stand well above the average horse’s height.

From the tallest draft breed to the tallest warmblood variety, these majestic animals come in all shapes and sizes—and some of them can even reach heights of up to 18 hands!

So if you’re looking for an equine companion with a bit of extra height and a good lifespan, then these tallest horse breeds are sure to fit your requirements.

Read on to learn more about each one and determine which is right for you.

10 Tallest Horse Breeds

If you’re looking for a horse that stands out in the crowd, then look no further than the tallest horse breeds.

From Shires to Friesians and everything in between, we have rounded up the 10 tallest horses in the world.

1. The Shire

This breed is an English breed of draft horse that can reach up to 19 hands (76 inches/193 cm). These gentle giants are known for their placid, easy-going temperaments and willingness to work hard.

They have strong legs and feet and feathering around the fetlocks and ankles that help protect them from cold or wet weather.

2. The Belgian Draft Horse

This is another popular European breed of draft horse that stands between 16-17 hands (64-68 inches/162-173 cm) tall.

With a strong, solid body and powerful presence, these horses are used in many different areas including show jumping, dressage, and pulling heavy loads.

3. The Clydesdale

This is another popular British breed of draft horse with a massive stature – they often reach up to 18 hands (72 inches/182 cm).

They have a muscular body and feathering around their fetlocks, ankles, and hooves. Clydesdales are known for their strength and agility, perfect for heavy work such as plowing fields or pulling wagons.

4. The Percheron

This French breed of the draft horse stands between 16-18 hands (64-72 inches/162-183 cm) tall. It has a powerful yet refined physique with solid legs, long hair on the lower legs, and well-arched feet.

Percherons are intelligent horses that are used in many different disciplines from show jumping to dressage.

5. The Thoroughbred

This is a British breed of horse that can reach heights of 16-17 hands (64-68 inches/162-173 cm). They have well-muscled bodies and long legs, making them great for show jumping and racing.

6. The Norfolk Trotter

These horses are a cross between a Shire and a Hackney Pony with an impressive height – they usually stand between 15-16 hands (60-64 inches/152-162 cm) tall.

They have strong legs and feet, with feathering around the fetlocks to protect against cold weather. They are known for their powerful trotting action as well as their ability to pull heavy loads.

7. The Friesian

This Dutch breed of horse with an impressive height. They usually reach up to 17 hands (68 inches/173 cm).

The Friesian is known for its beautiful mane and tail and long thick wavy hair on the lower legs. They have strong muscles, compact bodies, and well-arched feet, making them perfect for dressage or driving tasks.

8. The American Cream Draft Horse

This is an American breed of draft horse that averages heights of 16-17 hands (64-68 inches/162-173 cm).

They have strong legs and feet with feathering around their fetlocks to protect against cold weather.

They are gentle giants that are known for their calm nature and willing attitude while working hard in many different disciplines such as show jumping and dressage.

9. The Gypsy Vanner

This is a relatively new British breed of horse that stands between 15-16 hands (60-64 inches/152-162 cm) tall.

With its unique manes and tails, the Gypsy Vanner is a showstopper with its beautiful feathering around the fetlocks and ankles.

These horses are known for their intelligence and willingness to learn, making them perfect for dressage or driving tasks.

10. The Irish Draught Horse

This is an Irish breed of horse that stands between 15-17 hands (60-68 inches/152-173 cm).

With its beautiful black coat and white markings, the Irish Draught Horse is a stunning sight to behold.

They have strong legs and feet with feathering around their fetlocks, making them perfect for pulling heavy loads or working in the fields.

Final Words

No matter what tallest horse breed you choose, you’ll be sure to have a reliable partner who will work hard alongside you!

Whether you’re looking for a racial companion or just want to make a statement at your next event, these tallest horse breeds are sure to fit the bill.

With their impressive height and strength, these horses will surely get some heads turning!

Whether you’re looking for a new horse breed as a pet, there’s sure to be one that stands tall above the rest!