Horses and cows are two of the most widely recognized large animals. A frequent question arises about which animal is generally larger, encompassing both height and weight.
Comparing Horse and Cow Sizes
Horses are measured for height in “hands” at the withers, which is the highest point of the shoulder blade where the neck meets the back. One hand is equivalent to four inches. Adult horses stand between 15 to 17 hands (60-68 inches, or 5 to 5.6 feet) and weigh 900 to 2,200 pounds. Larger draft horse breeds like the Belgian or Shire can reach 16 to 19 hands (64-76 inches or 5.3-6.3 feet) and weigh 1,400 to 2,700 pounds, with some individuals exceeding 3,000 pounds.
Cows are measured in feet at the shoulder. Adult cows stand 4 to 6 feet tall. Their weight commonly falls within the range of 1,000 to 1,800 pounds, with an average often cited between 1,200 to 1,500 pounds. Beef cattle breeds are known for their heavier builds; for example, the Chianina breed can weigh up to 3,500 pounds. While some dairy breeds like Holsteins average around 1,500 pounds, others such as the Jersey are smaller, weighing between 770 and 880 pounds. Horses are generally taller, while cows, particularly those bred for meat, can be heavier.
Factors Influencing Their Stature
Breed differences significantly influence the size of both horses and cows. Horse breeds range from miniature breeds like the Falabella, which can be as small as 17.5 inches tall and weigh just 57 pounds, to massive draft horses. Cattle breeds vary greatly; beef breeds are specifically developed for muscle mass and weight, often making them heavier than dairy breeds. Even within dairy breeds, large Holsteins contrast sharply with the more compact Jerseys.
Age and sex play a role in an animal’s mature size. Horses continue to grow until they are around four to seven years old. Males of both species are larger than females. Diet and nutrition are important for achieving an animal’s full growth potential, as adequate feed intake directly supports body weight and development. The specific purpose for which animals are bred also directs size, such as breeding for meat production in cattle or for pulling power in draft horses. Genetic factors also contribute, with certain genes linked to variations in horse size.