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The Soviet Heavy Draft originated in Russia at the end of the
19th century, becoming established by the 1940s. They evolved through crossing
native mares with imported Percheron and Belgian stallions and interbreeding the
progeny. This resulted in a heavy draft horse of massive build, but with
surprisingly free movement at the walk and trot. They are one of the most common
draft horses in the Soviet Union, and are frequently used to improve other heavy
draft breeds. They mature quickly, but are less resistant to disease than some
other breeds.
They have a well-proportioned head with a pronounced jaw and
straight or convex profile. The neck is usually very short and muscular, the
chest broad and deep, the shoulders straight and strong, the back short, and
very strong, very muscular quarters, and a rounded barrel.
Their legs are very strong and sturdy with good, solid joints
and broad, rounded hooves. Conformational faults include being prone to pigeon
toes in the front feet and sickle hocks behind. Generally they are chestnut, but
can also be bay or roan in color, and they tend to stand between 15 and 15.3
hands high.
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