Horse breeds / Jutland horse
Photo: Malene Thyssen · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Horse breed
Jutland horse
The Jutland, also called the Jutland Draft or Jydsk, comes from the Jutland peninsula of Denmark, where it was developed as a heavy farm and draft horse. Breeders worked to produce a strong, dependable animal that could pull heavy loads on farms and in towns, and it was prized for its patient, willing work ethic. It was once one of the most widely used working horses in Denmark.
In daily life the Jutland is calm, steady and kind, with a deliberate, ground-covering walk and a placid nature that makes it easy to handle. It is not a riding horse in the usual sense, but it can be ridden lightly or driven, and experienced owners often enjoy it for relaxed carriage work and slow trail outings. Its size means it needs an owner who is comfortable handling a very large animal.
Jutlands need regular daily care, sound feet, and enough work to stay fit, along with turnout and good company. They do well with a consistent routine, quality forage, and a farrier who understands heavy horses, since feet and legs need careful attention.
Good for: Experienced owners, draft and carriage enthusiasts, farm work
| Size | giant |
| Weight | 1764 lb |
| Height | 61–65 in |
| Exercise | about 45 min a day |
| Shedding | heavy |
| Origin | Denmark |
Jutlands are large, so handling skills, feed costs and farrier care matter more than with average-sized horses.
Living with a Jutland horse
Exercise
A healthy Jutland usually needs about 30 to 60 minutes of ridden or in-hand work most days, plus daily turnout to keep it moving. With too little exercise, these heavy horses can gain weight quickly and become stiff and out of condition, which adds strain to the legs and feet.
Grooming
The Jutland has a dense coat that sheds heavily in spring, so regular brushing helps during that time. Its mane and tail are typically thick and can be brushed out gently with detangler. Feathering on the lower legs needs regular cleaning to avoid skin problems, and hooves need regular trimming or s
At home
Jutlands do best with daily turnout on pasture or a paddock, with shelter from wind and wet, and they cope well with cold. They are generally hardy and thrive in a herd. Their large size means feed needs are substantial, and they can be easy keepers on good grass, though some need careful management of weight.
Training
Jutlands learn steadily and respond best to patient, consistent handling rather than pressure. They are suited to driving, light trail riding and general farm work. A green Jutland tends to be slow to mature, so expect gradual progress and plenty of time for foundation work before asking for heavier tasks.
Health
Jutlands are commonly associated with conditions seen in heavy horses, such as leg and hoof problems and sensitivity to weight gain. Breed-specific health information is limited, so ask a veterinarian about screening and what is known for this horse. Work with your vet on a suitable care plan for your horse.
- Laminitis
- Leg and hoof problems
- Weight-related metabolic issues
Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.
The numbers for a Jutland horse
Forage and water, adult
26–44 lb of hay a day
Forage at 1.5–2.5% of body weight at 1764–1764 lb, and 16–28 gallons of water, more in heat and on hay alone. Grain only for the work being done.
What a year costs
$4,250–$6,900
Hay about $3,066, plus farrier every 6–8 weeks, routine vet, dental and dewormer. Board, lessons and showing on top; US averages.
Weather
Watch above 80°F, stop at 90°F
Blanket or shelter below 10°F. Horses mind heat more than cold: with shelter and water most are fine to about 10°F unclipped, and above a heat index of 150 (air °F + humidity %) ride early or not at all.
Where a Jutland horse is comfortable
Easy most of the year: Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Washington, DC, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.
Summer needs care (early rides, shade, fans): Arizona, Nevada, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah.
Winter needs care (blanket, shelter, water that is not frozen): North Dakota.
From typical July highs and January lows by state and this breed's heat and cold limits. Shade, shelter and water change everything; this is about turnout and work.
Right now
Latest feed recalls
Multiple Brand Names: Chicken Feed, Swine Feed, Cattle Feed, Horse Feed
ADM Animal Nutrition · Apr 1 · Specific lots may contain elevated levels of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium and/or chloride and may harm chickens, swine, beef cattle and equine.
Rescue a Jutland horse
Shelters and breed rescues list Jutland horses and Jutland horse mixes every week. Search adoptable Jutland horses on Petfinder → New to the breed? The first-horse kit →
Is a Jutland horse right for you?
- Yes if you want a calm, steady giant for driving or light work.
- Yes if you have space, feed budget and a farrier who knows heavy horses.
- Yes if you enjoy slow, relaxed trail rides rather than fast riding.
- Think twice if you want a quick, athletic horse for jumping or sport.
- Think twice if you lack the room, handling experience or upkeep budget.
Questions owners ask
Is the Jutland good for beginners?
Its temperament is calm, but its size makes it better suited to experienced owners who can handle a very large horse safely.
How much does a Jutland cost?
Prices vary widely by region, age and training. Contact breeders or registries for current figures in your area.
How tall is a Jutland?
Jutlands typically stand around 155 to 165 centimetres at the withers, though individual horses vary.
How long do Jutlands live?
Life span depends on care and health. Ask a veterinarian or breed registry for typical figures.
Is the Jutland an easy keeper?
Many are good doers on quality pasture, but their feed needs are large and weight should be monitored.
Similar breeds
Written by Hoofdeck editors · updated Nov 13, 2026 · facts from Wikidata and Wikimedia Commons; health notes are general veterinary guidance, not a diagnosis.