Cream draft horses are a unique and fascinating subset of draft horse breeds, distinguished not only by their striking coat color but also by their particular characteristics and qualities. While they share many traits with other draft breeds, such as strength, stamina, and hardworking natures, they also exhibit distinct differences that make them stand out in the world of draft horses. In this post, we will explore how cream draft horses, particularly the American Cream Draft Horse, differ from other well-known draft breeds like the Belgian, Clydesdale, and Percheron.
The Color Difference: Cream vs. Other Draft Breeds
The most noticeable difference between cream draft horses and other draft breeds is, of course, their coat color. Cream draft horses, most commonly the American Cream Draft Horse, are known for their light, almost golden coat color with a creamy hue. This coat color is the result of a recessive gene that produces the cream-colored coat, which is rare among draft horses.
In contrast, most other draft breeds tend to have darker, more traditional coat colors, such as bays, blacks, or grays. For example:
- Belgian Drafts are typically chestnut, sorrel, or bay, with some even displaying a roan or gray coat.
- Clydesdales, famous for their use in parades and promotional work, often have bay coats with white markings and “feathering” on their legs.
- Percherons are generally black or gray, with the gray horses lightening over time.
The cream color of the American Cream Draft Horse is truly distinctive, setting it apart in both appearance and personality.
Physical Build and Size Comparison
Like most draft horses, cream draft horses are large, muscular animals bred for hard work. However, there are subtle differences in size and build when compared to other draft breeds.
American Cream Draft Horse
The American Cream Draft Horse is generally smaller than some of the heavier draft breeds like the Belgian or Clydesdale. Typically, they stand between 16 and 17 hands high (64-68 inches) and weigh between 1,800 to 2,000 pounds. Despite their slightly smaller size, they retain the strength and stamina necessary for tasks like pulling carts, plowing fields, or working on farms.
Belgian Draft Horse
In comparison, the Belgian Draft Horse is one of the largest and heaviest draft breeds. They typically stand between 16.2 and 17.2 hands (66-70 inches) and can weigh anywhere between 1,800 and 2,200 pounds or more. Their large, stocky frame makes them ideal for heavy farm work and logging.
Clydesdales
Clydesdales, though slightly lighter in weight compared to the Belgian, are still large horses, standing between 16 and 18 hands (64-72 inches) tall. Known for their “feathered” legs (long, silky hair on their lower legs), Clydesdales are used for both draft work and display, especially in parades. They tend to have a more refined, longer-legged build compared to the stockier American Cream Draft Horse.
Percherons
Percherons, another prominent draft breed, stand between 15.2 and 17 hands (62-68 inches) and weigh between 1,800 to 2,200 pounds. Known for their elegant yet muscular build, they are highly versatile in both draft work and as show horses. Compared to the American Cream Draft Horse, Percherons tend to have a more compact build and a more refined head.
In summary, while all draft horses, including cream draft horses, are bred for power and endurance, the American Cream Draft Horse is somewhat smaller and lighter in build than other draft breeds, making them more versatile in certain applications where agility is needed alongside strength.
Temperament and Personality
While draft horses are generally known for their calm and patient demeanor, there are subtle personality differences that distinguish cream draft horses from other breeds.
American Cream Draft Horse
The American Cream Draft Horse is renowned for its gentle and docile nature. These horses are typically known to be easy to handle and calm, even with their larger size. They are very trainable and are often described as having an “affectionate” disposition, making them excellent companions for both experienced and novice handlers. This breed is less likely to be “pushy” or difficult to manage compared to some other draft breeds, which can sometimes display more dominant traits.
Belgian Draft Horse
Belgians, while also known for their calm demeanor, are often more energetic and determined in their work. They are typically very strong-willed, and while they are not known for being aggressive, they may require a firmer hand in training due to their larger size and more forceful nature. Belgians are often used for heavy farm labor, such as plowing or pulling large loads, and their temperament reflects their hardworking, no-nonsense approach.
Clydesdales
The Clydesdales are famous for their use in promotional campaigns and public appearances. While they are generally calm and good-natured, they have a bit more “spirit” compared to other draft horses, likely due to their exposure to public spectacles. They are used to large crowds and often show a bit more showmanship and excitement in such settings.
Percherons
Percherons are typically calm and reliable but can have a bit more energy and agility compared to the American Cream Draft Horse. Their versatility and intelligence make them suitable for both farm work and competitive events like pulling competitions. While they share the friendly, patient nature of other drafts, they are often a bit more forward-thinking and willing to engage in more varied tasks.
In essence, while all draft horses are known for their calm nature, the American Cream Draft Horse tends to stand out for its especially docile and affectionate personality, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a horse with a gentle temperament.
Usage in Work and Competitions
While all draft breeds excel in heavy work, there are subtle differences in the roles that cream draft horses tend to play compared to other breeds.
American Cream Draft Horse
The American Cream Draft Horse has historically been used for farm work, especially in the Midwest, where it pulled plows and carts and performed other labor-intensive tasks. Although they are not as widely used in heavy logging or farm work today due to the rise of machinery, they still serve in lighter draft roles, including competitive pulling, carriage driving, and as show horses. Their size and temperament make them ideal for more diverse tasks, particularly in show settings or events that demand both strength and elegance.
Belgian Draft Horse
The Belgian is the go-to breed for heavy farm work and logging. Their immense size and power make them perfect for pulling large loads, and they are often used for tasks that require sustained heavy lifting, such as logging in forests or plowing expansive fields.
Clydesdales
Famous for their association with Budweiser, Clydesdales are primarily used in ceremonial or promotional settings. Though they are certainly capable of heavy work, their high visibility in parades and public events has made them a cultural icon. Their fine appearance and high-stepping gait make them perfect for display, though they are still strong enough to perform traditional draft horse tasks.
Percherons
The Percheron is highly versatile, used for both work and show. Their strength and agility make them a good choice for driving competitions, light draft work, and even competitive pulling events. They are also often seen in parades and exhibitions due to their elegant appearance and calm demeanor.
Conclusion
While cream draft horses share many qualities with other draft breeds, such as strength, endurance, and docility, they stand out due to their unique coat color, lighter build, and gentle temperament. The American Cream Draft Horse, in particular, is distinguished by its calm, affectionate nature, making it an ideal choice for a variety of roles, from light draft work to ceremonial events. Though not as large or as widely used as breeds like the Belgian or Clydesdale, cream draft horses offer a distinct combination of beauty, strength, and temperament that makes them unforgettable.
