The Clydesdale horse is one of America’s most beloved and well-loved. They are a popular choice for the arena because they can be used to haul luggage.
But, how much exactly does a Clydesdale horse cost? A Clydesdale horse can be purchased for as little as $1000 up to $25000. The average price for a Clydesdale horse in the United States is between $1000 to $5000. The most expensive Clydesdale horse fetched a whopping $212,500!
If you’re planning to buy a horse, then we are providing you with a detailed guide on the initial cost as well as maintenance expenditures of a Clydesdale horse.
How Much Does A Clydesdale Cost?
The more expensive something is usually, the larger it is. This is true for horses, but what if it’s not? Like everything else in the horse world it depends on the answer. Clydesdale horses don’t seem to be an exception to this rule. What is the cost of a Clydesdale?
This article will answer the question “How much does a Clydesdale horse cost?” Clydesdale draft horses are not much more expensive than average riding horses.
To help you gauge the cost of Clydesdale horses, I will compare their costs to those of average draft horses and riding horses. I will also talk about the price ranges within Clydesdale bread and the factors that can lead to such variation.
The History Of The Clydesdale
The Clydesdale is today one of the most well-known draft horse breeds. Even those who don’t know much about horses can recognize one when they see it. The Budweiser Clydesdales have promoted and protected the breed.
The Clydesdale is a symbol of America but it was actually born in Scotland, specifically Lanarkshire. Clydesdale was the old name for Lanarkshire. Local horses didn’t have the desired substance in the 1700s.
Flemish stallions were brought to Scotland in order to increase the strength and size of local horses. The Duke of Hamilton was the first to import one, and offered his tenants the right to use the stallion at no cost. John Paterson of Lochlyloch brought another Flemish stallion to Scotland.
With the help of lineage records, the breed continued to grow and develop. Baron of Buchlyvie, one of the most well-known stallions, was born in the early 20th century. Baron of Buchlyvie was eleven years old when he sold his horse at auction in 1911 for PS9 700, an incredible price at that time.
Draft horse numbers dropped significantly after World War II, and there was more machinery available on farms. This put the Clydesdale in serious danger of disappearing.
Clydesdale Characteristics
The Clydesdale is between 17 and 19 inches tall and 1,600 to 2,400 lbs. Clydesdales are strong and muscular and built for strength and power. Clydesdales tend to be bay with white markings and thick feathering on their legs.
They can be black, chestnut or even grey. They have hooves that are four times larger than a Thoroughbred’s.
This breed is more prone to certain health issues. These include skin infections on their legs from poor care of their feathering, and lymphedema (a persistent swelling of the legs).
From their birth, the Budweiser Clydesdales have been carefully trained to achieve celebrity status. This is how it works.
What Does a Clydesdale cost? Horse price range
It is difficult to talk about the cost of buying horses. A green-broke four-year-old quarter-horse can be purchased for as little as a grand. Grand Prix jumpers and international hunters derby horses can also be bought for prices in the middle of the six figures.
Many factors can cause this wide range in prices. These factors include location, breeding, quality, age, size, quality, markings, training, show record, and breeding. Horses can be expensive because of their breeding. The Clydesdale isn’t too expensive when compared to other breeds and high-quality sport horses.
Sometimes, horses from cheaper breeds are able to have professional training and show success. Sometimes, a horse’s cost includes relocation. This is something you should consider when purchasing a horse. Importing a horse from Europe into the Americas is an excellent example.
Clydesdales can be purchased for anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 depending on the factors listed above. Clydesdales can be purchased for between $2,500 and $5,000. Clydesdales with exceptional training can be expensive. You should also consider the cost of the horse.
How Much Does A Clydesdale Horse Cost?
A sound, healthy horse with very few show miles is likely to sell for at least a couple grand. A few years ago, I helped to sell and buy horses ranging from 10-14 years old.
They were Quarter Horses and Thoroughbreds as well as Paint Horses. All of them were saddle-broken and trained with very little show mileage. These horses were sold for between $4,000 and $7,000.
Horses with more experience (e.g., show miles or training) will be more expensive. As we have discussed, some horses are more expensive than others because of their breeding. However, the average cost of a horse is approximately $5,000.
Cost of an Average Draft Horse
Because of their size, are draft horses more expensive than saddle horses? Well, it depends. It can be yes or no at times. Draft horse owners agree that the purchase of a horse is not the end of the story, but the next steps will.
A draft horse costs roughly the same price as a riding horse. It will cost between $4,000 to $7,000. However, a Horse Forum forum allows draft owners to discuss the external costs of owning a draft horse, such as fly spray, dewormer and supplements.
How Much Does A Clydesdale Horse Cost?
There are exceptions to this rule. The prices of draft horses who have shown success in the showring, whether they were pulling contests or breed shows, will probably be higher than the average.
Average Cost for a Clydesdale Horse
Clydesdale USA states that Clydesdale horses can be purchased for between $2500 to $5,000. This is in line with my estimate of an average horse price. The most expensive Clydesdale horses include “…Bloodlines and Training . These are all variants of horse costs that have been previously discussed.
Clydesdale mares tend to be slightly more expensive than Clydesdale horses or stallions. Clydesdale geldings and stallions are usually about $2500, while Clydesdale stalions or geldings can go for as low as $3500 for a show-ready Clydesdale.
Your Clydesdale’s price will vary depending on the type and level of horse that you want, but an average Clydesdale price would be around $3500 to $4,000.
The Real Cost of a Clydesdale Horse
Clydesdale ownership is a financial commitment that will last a lifetime. Horses need to be healthy and happy.
Horse owners know that the cost of owning a horse does not include buying the horse. It is about keeping it. There are some important maintenance considerations to make when buying a Clydesdale.
Some items and services are more costly for draft horses than for saddle horses. These items include the farrier bill, horse’s equipment, feed quantities, trailer size, and tack.
Farrier
A farrier service will usually cost more for a draft horse that it will for a regular-sized horse. It seems fair when you consider the draft horse’s feet and the extra work involved in maintaining them. However, you should consider the cost of a Clydesdale’s farrier.
Foot trimming is the cheapest farrier job. However, a Clydesdale will need shoes for any type of work. Clydesdales can be twice as expensive as smaller breeds, and cost more than $200 to shoe. This is not an annual expense. Horse feet need to be trimmed at least once every six to eight weeks.
Clydesdales are difficult to shoe due to their size. Clydesdales are not a common task for all farriers. They don’t have the right tools.
Tack/Harness Equipment
When buying a draft horse, it is important to consider whether you need a larger or smaller saddle or bridle. It is important to have the right tack fit for your horse, especially if it’s your first draft.
Vet
You will likely only need to visit your veterinarian once a year for annual vaccinations. The cost of this set of vaccinations is around $300, with some being administered twice per year. Your vet will direct you to get our regular wormer.
Horse ownership is not for everyone. Unplanned visits, such as colic or injury, will eventually occur. This can lead to significant increases in costs.
Feed
A draft horse will typically require more food than a regular-sized horse. Clydesdales and draft horses are known for being easy-keepers. However, it is essential to ensure that they have the food they need to stay healthy.
You should provide them with twenty to forty pounds of hay each day, and, if they need it for their work or weight maintenance, two to ten kilos of grain per day.
Clydesdales can be fed the same type of feed as standard-sized horses: forage (grass, or both), grain and possibly added supplements.
Trailer
Clydesdales may not be able to fit into a standard-sized trailer. Clydesdales, and other drafts, often need to haul in-stock trailers or any other type of horse transport such as vans. This is something you should consider if you plan to travel with your Clydesdale.
Different Features of a Clydesdale Horse
It is easy to identify a Clydesdale horse. These are some of the special characteristics of this gentle horse breed.
Weight
Clydesdales can weigh anywhere from 1,600 to 2,200 pounds. They have changed over time and are now lighter than they were hundreds of years ago. They still have strong muscles and are very powerful.
Appearance
Clydesdales have a slightly bulging face, a inclined shoulder, a high withers and feathery tails. These horses average 162 to 183 cm in height, with some Clydesdale males reaching 183 cm. These stallions could also have large hooves and wide foreheads.
Color
Clydesdales are available in many colors today, including bay, grey and black. Some come in multiple colors. Some horses are reddish-brown with white markings on the legs and face. Some stallions also have the sabino color due to their sabino gene.
Clydesdales are sometimes bred with certain horses by farmers to produce stallions with particular markings.
Hair Distribution
Clydesdales tend to have thick feathering in the lower legs. If the hair gets too long, it can lead to “Clyde’s itch”. Farmers believe it is a form of mange.
A Clydesdale is a great horse for those who are passionate about horses. The initial cost of purchasing the horse is something you should consider.
The initial costs
According to the Clydesdale Breeders of the USA (CBS), a Clydesdale horse can be purchased for between $1,000 and $5,000. A top-shelf show horse or award-winning stallion might fetch as much as $20,000. These horses can fetch as little as $20,000.
You should be prepared to make other costs if you are thinking about buying a Clydesdale horse.
Healthcare
To ensure your Clydesdale is healthy throughout the year, you must take care of it. You will need to pay for the Clydesdale’s healthcare each year.
You will also need to find an experienced farrier to care for your horse’s hoof. It could cost between $25 and $150 per month.
Feeding
A Clydesdale horse must eat a lot of hay and grains daily in order to stay strong and healthy. Its age and the amount of work it does will determine what you feed it. Adult stallions can eat as much as 50 lbs of hay per day and as many grains each day.
This horse breed consumes more food per head than any other horse. A young Clydesdale costs between $150 and $175 per month to feed. Adult Clydesdales who work hard need horse joint supplements to help with the healing of their injured tissues and improve their health.
Boarding
Clydesdale boarding costs are a common expense for farmers, which can range from $500 to $2000 per month. This ensures that horses have safe and comfortable barns and stables. Shoes are also necessary.
A set of shoes costs about $200. Some brands cost $150. You should replace them every four to eight weeks.
Factors that Influence the Price of a Clydesdale Horse
Are you ready to buy a Clydesdale horse or not? You should be aware that there are many factors that will impact the cost of bringing this beloved horse home. These factors are:
Scarcity
The 2016 Rare Breeds Survival Trust Watchlist states that Clydesdale is a “vulnerable species”. Globally, there are approximately 5,000 Clydesdales. The price of this endangered horse breed will only rise if it is not protected.
Breed and Bloodline
Consider the bloodline of your Clydesdale before you buy it. Champions bloodlines are more costly but well worth the investment. These horses can be used to breed more desirable horses or earn an income through their show wins.
Clydesdales tend to be less expensive than sport horses or other superior horse breeds.
Age
Price of a Clydesdale Horse can also be affected by age. The prime age for this breed is between 5-14 years. It is therefore more expensive. However, Clydesdales older than 5-14 years are more affordable.
Size
Most cases, the bigger the item, the more costly it will be. Although this is a significant factor in determining the cost of a Clydesdale Horse, it is not the only thing that sellers take into consideration. Here, other factors like the cost of caring for the horse are important.
Training
Clydesdales that are exceptionally trained can be purchased for as high as $5,000. Because this horse breed is difficult to train, a professional trainer is required and a lot of dedication. Untrained horses can be sold for as low as $3,000.
Localization
When setting the price for this horse breed, Clydesdale sellers take into consideration the geographic location. You might need to cover relocation costs if you plan on importing Clydesdale.
Show Records
A Clydesdale that has won show records is worth at least $5,000. A horse that has shown success in shows will fetch a higher price. One horse could be priced as high as $10,000.
Boarding costs
For example, if you buy a Clydesdale horse but are unable or unwilling to care for it, then add boarding fees to the initial price. The facility you choose will determine the amount you have to pay.
Equipment to Buy with Clydesdale Horse
Along with your Clydesdale horse, you will need other equipment. These are the most important:
Harness Equipment
Because it is essential to keep your Clydesdale horse safe, harness equipment is important. These include a saddle for riding the horse and a hackamore for controlling it. These are just a few examples:
- Breastplate
- Girth
- Bridle
- Crupper
- Martingale
- Food
To ensure the comfort of your Clydesdale horse when it moves into its new home, you can purchase horse feed. It will need quality pellets and good horse hay. The amount of feed you give it will depend on how old it is and what its day looks like.
Trailer
You can use a horse trailer (also known as a van) to transport your Clydesdale horse from one place to another. You can choose any design that you like, but make sure it is big enough to accommodate your horse.
FAQ About Clydesdale Horse Cost
What is the average length of a Clydesdale’s pregnancy?
The average age is 11 months. You can use a horse gestation calculator to find out the approximate due date of your mare to foal. The newborn will gain approximately 4 pounds each day if it is well fed and taken care of.
[sc_fs_multi_faq headline-0=”h3″ question-0=”How much do the Budweiser Clydesdales cost?” answer-0=”How much is a Budweiser Clydesdale horse worth? Budweiser Clydesdales are worth $5,000 to $15,000, depending on their age, performance, and speciality.” image-0=”7596″ headline-1=”h3″ question-1=”How much does it cost to take care of a Clydesdale horse?” answer-1=”On average, an adult Clydesdale eats about 3 to 10 pounds of grain and 25 to 50 pounds of hay every day. The amount of food will be even much more if your horses have to work all day long. So, when raising a Clydesdale, you may have to spend about $150 to $175 per month on feeding on average.” image-1=”7593″ headline-2=”h3″ question-2=”How much is the most expensive Clydesdale?” answer-2=”The initial price of a Clydesdale horse starts at about $1000 to about $25000. In the United States, most Clydesdale breeders and farmers will sell their equine for between $1000 and $5000. The most expensive Clydesdale horse fetched a whopping $212,500″ image-2=”7604″ headline-3=”h3″ question-3=”Can I buy a Clydesdale?” answer-3=”Can you buy a Clydesdale Horse? Clydesdale horses can be purchased privately. In fact, Budweiser even sells foals to the public but there are many other breeders you can choose from as well.” image-3=”” headline-4=”h3″ question-4=”Are Clydesdales good for riding?” answer-4=”Can you ride Clydesdales? Yes The Clydesdales are very easy to train and their great style is a hit in the show ring. They also make exceptional trail horses due to their calm disposition.” image-4=”” headline-5=”h3″ question-5=”Does Budweiser still own the Clydesdales?” answer-5=”Anheuser-Busch owns a total of about 250 Clydesdales, kept at various locations throughout the United States, one of the largest herds of Clydesdale horses in the world. The largest breeding facility is at Warm Springs Ranch near Boonville, Missouri which is about 150 miles west of St.” image-5=”7593″ headline-6=”h3″ question-6=”Are Clydesdales good for beginners?” answer-6=”Clydesdales often have a quiet demeanor that beginners enjoy. These horses tend to be forgiving of a beginner’s mistakes and are generally calm and steady.” image-6=”” headline-7=”h3″ question-7=”How long do Clydesdale horses live?” answer-7=”Clydesdales generally live into their late teens to early twenties.” image-7=”” headline-8=”h3″ question-8=”How many acres does a Clydesdale need?” answer-8=”If you are attempting to figure the carrying capacity of land for a horse, then a good rule of thumb is 1-1/2 to 2 acres of open intensely managed land per horse. Two acres, if managed properly, should provide adequate forage in the form of pasture and/or hay ground.” image-8=”” headline-9=”h3″ question-9=”Why do Clydesdales have hairy feet?” answer-9=”During their summers, the high temperatures may only reach sixty degrees Fahrenheit. In Scotland’s highlands, it’s typical for the snow to be on the ground a 100 days of the year. The long hairy creating the furry feet may have evolved to protect the Clydesdales feet from the cold.” image-9=”” headline-10=”h3″ question-10=”How much can a Clydesdale horse carry?” answer-10=”The average Clydesdale can carry up to a maximum of 350 pounds, but remember that every horse has different capabilities.” image-10=”” headline-11=”h3″ question-11=”Can Clydesdales run Fast?” answer-11=”No. Clydesdales are very lazy horses, and they eat a lot. They were specifically bred to pull heavy loads, not to carry weight or run fast.” image-11=”” headline-12=”h3″ question-12=”Can Clydesdales Jump?” answer-12=”Clydesdales can jump, but with their large, dinner-plate-sized feet and heavy joints, it isn’t the best idea for them to jump too high or too much. Trainers, however, have had success with two bars, but they find that when they exceed this limit, the horses either become hesitant to jump over it or they knock it over.” image-12=”” headline-13=”h3″ question-13=”Can Clydesdales do Dressage?” answer-13=”Clydesdale can perform dressage. If you want a horse that you can enjoy riding in dressage, then a Clydesdale may be the horse for you, but if you intend to compete in high-level dressage, don’t buy a draft horse.” image-13=”” count=”14″ html=”true” css_class=””]
How many Clydesdale foals are born each year?
In the United States alone, there are approximately 600 new foals each year. These horses also come from other countries, such as Australia, Canada and Great Britain.
Are Clydesdales allowed to be ridden?
Yes. Clydesdales are calm and can be ridden. They are easy to train.
What weight can they pull or carry?
Clydesdales can pull or transport 320lbs. Their weight ranges from 1,600 to 1,800 pounds. It is important to note that the horse they are pulling can make a difference. These horses can pull wagons as heavy as their weight.
What and how much food does a Clydesdale eat per day?
The amount of work a Clydesdale puts in per day will determine how much food it consumes. These horses typically require between 3-10 and 25-50 pounds of grain, as well as 25-50 pounds of hay.
Conclusion
This article should have helped you understand the cost of Clydesdale Horses. Horse world costs and expenses are subjective. However, it is important to have an estimate before you make any purchase or lease.
Clydesdales are still very rare, with just 600 foals being born every year in the United States. Although this can impact the price, a Clydesdale is a good companion horse or pleasure horse and is less expensive than other horses.
Long-term care, vet and boarding, farrier, as well as feed, are the main factors that impact the cost of a Clydesdale.
This breed is gentle and powerful, but you should think carefully before buying one. Consider how much you can afford for the horse’s lifetime.
It is estimated that it will live for 25 years. It adds up quickly to a lot of cash!