The Irish Draught horse originated in Ireland in the 20th century, as Irish farmers started favouring, lighter, more versatile versions of draft horses over the traditional heavy drafts. They wanted horses that could work the land, but could also be athletic enough to go fox-hunting and jump large fences and gallop in open country.
The Irish Draught is a warm-blooded breed that are typically sound, level-headed animals with good bone, substance, smooth movement and quality. They are good scopey jumpers and willing riding horses with good brains.
Unlike a lot of competitive horses, Irish Draughts are usually suitable mounts for people of all ages and all riding levels. They are true “allrounders,” and just as well suited to being family horses as they are to being top-level competition horses.
