The Average Height for a Horse

Horses can vary widely in height.

Each breed of horse has a different average size. To determine the height of a horse, measure from its withers -- a noticeable bump where the neck and back meet -- to the ground, using 4-inch increments called hands high -- or hh.

Draft Horses

Heavy, or draft, horses are the largest of the breeds, including Clydesdales, which range from 16.2 to 18 hh in height, and Belgians, which are about 16 hh tall. So, Clydesdale are between 5 feet 6 inches and 6 feet tall, and Belgians are about 5 feet 4 inches tall.

Light Horses

Many breeds fall under this category, including thoroughbreds, which stand at about 16 hh -- or 5 feet 4 inches -- tall, and quarter horses, which range from 14 to 16 hh -- or 4 feet 8 inches to 5 feet 4 inches tall.

Small/Miniature Horses

The Caspian is considered a small horse, although its average height is only 9 hh -- or 3 feet -- tall. Miniature horses are measured in inches and come in many different height categories, the tallest being 34 inches.

References

• Oklahoma State University: Thoroughbred
• Oklahoma State University: Caspian
• Washington State University Extension: Draft Horse Handbook
• 4-H Horse Project: Member's Manual
• The Ultimate Horse Site: Hands Conversion

Resources

• Boston College: Horse Breeds
• Oklahoma State University: Breeds of Livestock