The Sokolsky, or Sokolka, originated
in Poland, and is a relatively young breed, having been established
for approximately 100 years. The Sokolsky developed through crosses
between Belgian Heavy Draft, Belgian Ardennes, Norfolk, Dole Gudbrandsdal,
and Anglo-Norman stock. The result is a versatile draft and farm
animal of great strength but without being excessively heavy. They
are tough with great stamina, and an excellent forward-going gait
- characteristics which have ensured their popularity.
In appearance, the Sokolsky has a slightly
heavy head, with a straight profile, large kind eyes, and alert
ears. The neck is quite long for a draft horse, and is very muscular
and broad at the base. The shoulders are well put together and reasonably
sloping for a draft animal, which accounts for their free action.
They should have a deep chest, pronounced withers, a short and straight
back, and a sloping, muscular croup. Their legs should be strong
with short cannon bones, well-defined tendons and well-formed, hard
hooves. Generally they are either chestnut, bay, or brown, and stand
between 15 and 16 hh.
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