Suffolk Horses

These horses are also known as the Suffolk Punch and come from East Anglia.  They are one of the purest heavy horse breeds.  It is a strong, compact and hardy breed and the horses have a kind disposition. 

 
All Suffolks can be traced back to one born in 1760 and the selective breeding and breed society rules means that the breed has continued to be pure and successful.  They are a long living breed and known to be good doers!


History

This is the oldest breed which is still recognisable today in the same form that it was originally known in the 16th century.  The Suffolk horses were developed by famers for farm work and so are docile but also powerful and have plenty of stamina.  All Suffolks can be traced back to one born in 1760 - he was nameless.

Over the years some Norfolk Trotter, Norfolk Cob and Thoroughbred blood has been introduced, however, this blood had little effect on the breed.  In 1877 the Suffolk Horse Society was formed and it published the first stud book in 1907.  At the end of the 19th century the breed was exported to Canada and the US.  By 1908 the breed had been exported to many countries of Europe in addition to  Russia, Africa, Argentina, Australia and many more.

In wartime they were used to pull artillery but after the Second World War, as machinery was introduced to agriculture their use and popularity fell.  More recently there has been an increase in their popularity, but, they are still considered critical.

Characteristics

Height: 16hh - 16.2hh

Colour:  Chestnut, of various shades!

Conformation:  They have a kind face, a thick, powerful and arching neck. The shoulders are well muscled and the girth is  very wide.  The breed has a short, wide back and powerful quarters.  Good, strong, clean legs and strong, well shaped feet.  The Suffolk does not have many feathers.

Temperament:  Another breed with an excellent temperament.  They are kind and intelligent, honest and well mannered.

Used in forestry and some other draught work and showing.  When crossed with lighter breeds they can produce fantastic sport horses or hunters!

 
The Suffolk Horse Society Website: http://www.suffolkhorsesociety.org.uk/

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