Mary Allen
Introduction: What are American Drum Horses?
American Drum Horses are a relatively new breed of horse that was developed in the United States. They are a cross between two heavy horse breeds, the Clydesdale and the Shire, and are known for their strength, size, and beauty. American Drum Horses are often used for carriage driving, pleasure riding, and in therapy programs.
History of the American Drum Horse breed
The American Drum Horse breed was developed in the United States in the 1990s by Gypsy Vanner breeder Gigi Bailey. She wanted to create a new breed of horse that combined the strength and beauty of the Clydesdale and Shire breeds. The name "Drum Horse" comes from the British tradition of using heavy horses to carry military drums during parades. The American Drum Horse breed was recognized by the International Drum Horse Association in 2006.
Physical Characteristics of American Drum Horses
American Drum Horses are large, muscular horses that can weigh up to 2,000 pounds. They are typically between 16 and 18 hands tall and come in a variety of colors, including black, bay, chestnut, and gray. They have a thick, flowing mane and tail and feathering on their legs. American Drum Horses have a calm and gentle temperament, which makes them well-suited for a variety of activities.
American Drum Horses in the show ring
American Drum Horses are increasingly popular in the show ring. They are often seen in carriage driving competitions and have been known to win high honors. Their size, strength, and beauty make them an impressive sight in the arena.
American Drum Horses as carriage horses
American Drum Horses are frequently used as carriage horses for weddings, parades, and other special events. Their size and strength make them ideal for pulling carriages and they are often trained to work in pairs or teams. American Drum Horses are also well-suited to urban environments, as they are calm and unflappable in busy surroundings.
American Drum Horses as pleasure riding horses
American Drum Horses can also be used for pleasure riding. Their calm temperament and size make them a good choice for novice riders or those who enjoy leisurely trail rides. They are also known for their smooth gait, which makes them comfortable to ride for extended periods of time.
American Drum Horses in therapy programs
American Drum Horses are increasingly being used in therapy programs for people with physical and mental disabilities. Their calm temperament and size make them an ideal choice for therapeutic riding, which has been shown to have numerous physical and emotional benefits.
Health concerns for American Drum Horses
Like all horses, American Drum Horses are susceptible to a variety of health issues, including lameness, obesity, and respiratory problems. It is important for owners to provide proper nutrition, exercise, and veterinary care to keep their horses healthy.
Breeding and genetics of American Drum Horses
Breeding American Drum Horses requires careful consideration of both the Clydesdale and Shire breeds. The goal is to produce a horse that combines the best traits of both breeds, including size, strength, and beauty. Breeding programs must also take into account genetic factors to ensure that the resulting offspring are healthy and free from genetic disorders.
Training and care of American Drum Horses
Training and care of American Drum Horses is similar to that of other heavy horse breeds. They require regular exercise, proper nutrition, and veterinary care. They are also typically trained using positive reinforcement techniques, as they respond well to gentle handling.
American Drum Horses in the equine industry
American Drum Horses are becoming increasingly popular in the equine industry. They are used for a variety of purposes, including carriage driving, pleasure riding, and therapy programs. Their size, strength, and beauty make them a valuable addition to any stable.
Conclusion: The value of American Drum Horses
American Drum Horses are a valuable addition to the equine industry. Their size, strength, and beauty make them ideal for a variety of activities, including carriage driving, pleasure riding, and therapy programs. With proper care and training, American Drum Horses can provide years of enjoyment and companionship to their owners.