CARDS WITH CARE The Clydesdale Horse Society

Our Blog Published on November 6, 2025

Christmas always feels like the perfect moment to think of others. At Whistlefish, we love that our cards can help share joy while also supporting organisations that deserve a little extra cheer. This year, a portion of the proceeds from our festive collection will once again help some truly special causes. One of these is very close to our hearts. The Clydesdale Horse Society.

We thought you might enjoy getting to know more about the wonderful work they do and the beautiful breed they protect.

who are The Clydesdale Horse Society?

Established in 1877, the Society is dedicated to protecting the Clydesdale. Their goal is to maintain the breed’s purity, celebrate its heritage and ensure these gentle giants continue to have a place in our world.

a proud and powerful history

The Clydesdale is a native of Scotland. The name comes from old Clydesdale in Lanarkshire where the breed first took shape in the 18th century. Local horses were carefully bred for strength and stamina. Before long, the Clydesdale became one of the finest heavy horses in the world.

@clydesdalehorsesociety

They worked tirelessly on farms, hauled goods through busy cities and even served bravely during the First World War. At the height of their popularity, more than 140,000 of these magnificent horses lived and worked in Scotland alone. Their numbers reached a peak in 1911 with over 1,600 stallions exported across the globe. Australia. New Zealand. The United States. The world could not get enough of them.

Sadly, once machinery replaced horsepower, the breed’s numbers fell dramatically. By the mid 1970s the Clydesdale was listed as vulnerable.

the Clydesdale today

Anyone who has ever stood beside a Clydesdale knows their presence is unforgettable. They usually stand between 17 and 18 hands high. Strong legs decorated with snowy white feathers. A blaze of white shining on the face. Calm eyes full of patience and kindness.

Their popularity continues to grow. Yet with only around 175 foals registered each year, the breed remains at risk and still needs champions. Many are enjoying new lives ridden for pleasure or shown with pride at equestrian events. Others continue their traditional roles on the land, working in a way that connects us with our rural past.

Recently, Scotland had the joy of hosting the World Clydesdale Show. A brilliant celebration of the breed and of the people who care so deeply about it.

why Whistlefish care

The story of the Clydesdale reminds us how precious our native breeds are. They hold memories of where we come from. They remind us of the strength, spirit and companionship shared between people and animals.

Every Clydesdale card you purchase from our Christmas collection helps support the Society’s mission to protect the breed for future generations. That is something we feel very proud of.