- Soviet Heavy Draft -

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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