When draft horses are spoken of, it is usually refering to larger horses that are bred specifically to do hard and heavy work, such as farming, logging, hauling, recreation, and many other heavy tasks.. The height of these horses usually varies from 16 to 19 hands, and their weight falls between 1,400 and 2,000 pounds. They usually have broad and short backs with very powerful hindquarters. These horses are considered to be coldblooded horses. They specialize in strength, durability, patience, and docile temperament. However, many horses that are used as draft horses are actually of a smaller weight and height and weren't bred mainly as work horses.

Draft horses are still used by the Amish and on small farms all over the world. They are also used in parades, for showing, sports, transportation, and in places where either cars or gasoline are not readily available. However, their usage for farming, and hauling has slowly dwindled ever since the automobile and tractor have been in use. Below is a list of breeds that are or were bred specifically as draft horses.