Estonian Draft

The Estonian Draft or Eston-Arden (Estonian: Eesti raskeveohobune) is a breed of draft horse developed in Estonia. They were developed from a cross of Estonian Native horses and Swedish Ardennes and officially recognized by the Estonian government in 1953. Population numbers have decreased since the early 1990s and today inbreeding is of significant concern and the breed is considered to be endangered by the Estonian government. Where is Estonia? In northern Europe:

Estonian Drafts are notably good-looking, upright and express power. The horses have spacious, good movements. The body is rectangular, the neck is strong and muscular. The hindquarters are broad and round. The head is well-proportioned, expressive and their eyes are friendly. They are generally bay or chestnut in color. Height 158–175 cm, relatively heavy, often 500–700 kg. Estonian Drafts are very energetic and healthy, cooperative and docile, brave, intelligent, social and benevolent. They can be used both as working horses and as "hobby horses" of the whole family.

Kristina´s young Estonian Draft Viking

Kristina had dreamed about a draft horse for a long time. She had considered an Irish Cob (Tinker) as well, but when she found this beautiful, young stud in Finland, she decided to have him. Viking isn’t even one year old yet and already such a handsome boy. (By the way – do you know why the Irish Cobs are called "Tinkers"? Read the answer at the end!) "I find these rather rare breeds interesting. I also have a Yakutian Horse", Kristina says. "These breeds are worth treasuring and as cold-blood horses they are calm, easy to handle, friendly and versatile in use. I intend to drive and ride Viking in the future".

During the winter time Viking spends his days in a corral with a Shetland Pony Justus. Justus is very young, too, only two years old. Although he is also a stud and a teaser who likes to be in the center of attention, these two get along very well. "I think my little pack is now perfect." Well, Kristina, as we all know, there is nothing as imperfect as perfect... We’ll wait and see what kind of horse moves to you next! And then the answer to the question: Why are the Irish Cobs called "Tinkers"? Tinker, Gypsy Vanner – these names come from the times when travelers used these horses to pull their wagons, and many of them were tinsmiths by profession. The Irish term is "tinceard". Thank you, Kristina, for letting us get to know Viking and Justus. We wish you all the best and good times working together!