The Shire is the worlds tallest and heaviest horse. They are

among the giants of the horse world. It's name comes from

the Midland counties of England - the "Shires" - where it

was first bred. These horses could carry knights in armor

weighing up to 400 pounds! When guns replaced knights

in armor, these animals were used for plowing or hauling

heavy loads. Before WWII, the Shire was used on farms.

By the 60's there were barely 2000 of these massive

creatures left. Fans of the Shire campaigned to revive the

breed by showing them at fairs and exhibitions. Soon they

became a popular attraction. Now they are used in plowing

contests and to pull wagons in parades. They are also doing

traditional farm work again.

The Shire has a medium sized head with a broad forehead

and kind expression. They have long ears and a long neck.

The shoulders are deep and wide. The barrel of a stallion

is so large that it can measure up to 8 feet around! Mares

average from 16 hands high and stallions average above

17 hands high. They are often black, but are also gray,

brown and bay. All have white feathering. They are very

strong but gentle horses.