The Brabant

The Brabant.
The Brabant (also known as the Brabancon and Belgian Heavy Draught) is a magnificent horse which takes its name from the region in central Belgium where it was first bred. This is an area where horses are known to thrive on fertile soil and rich pasture. The Brabant dates back to the 11th century, and is believed to resemble the war horses bred in the Middle Ages.
The breed used to be prized as a draught pulling animal because of its great power. It is still a favourite in North America. Brabants have been exported all over the world for cross-breeding, to improve such quality of other heavy-horse types such as the Shire and Clydesdale in Great Britain.

APPEARANCE.
The Brabant is large, muscular and handsome. The head is slightly square and small in proportion to the size of the body. It has a strong neck and shoulders and massive hindquarters. The back is short and the girth deep. The legs are strong with plenty of feather.

HEIGHT.
15-17hh.

COLOUR.
Usually strawberry roan or chestnut with black points. Occasionally bay, brown, grey or dun.

PERSONALITY.
The Brabant is a good-natured horse with a kind temperament and works willingly.
As with so many of the large draught animals, the demand for the Brabant has decreased now modern machinery is readily available. But in some of the more remote communities of Belgium the breed is highly valued.

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