Dutch collar

harness

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Last updated

June 25, 2026

Quick Summary

The term "Dutch collar" refers to a specific type of horse collar. This device, made of leather or leather and metal, encircles a horse's neck and is used to attach the animal to a wagon or plow.1

A Dutch collar is characterized by a broad band across the horse's chest and a narrower band over its withers, with the traces attached to the chest band. This design differs from older yokes that passed across the windpipe, choking the animal. The horse collar, which became widespread in Europe during the 12th century, was a significant medieval invention. It allowed horses to pull more efficiently without choking, thereby advancing transportation, trade, and the use of horses as draft animals.1

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horse collar
A Dutch collar consists of a broad band across the chest and a narrow band over the withers; traces are attached to the broad band. A hames collar is heavily padded; iron projections (hames) that surround the padding contain eyepieces for the reins and traces.
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A Dutch collar consists of a broad band across the chest and a narrow band over the withers; traces are attached to the broad band. A hames collar is heavily padded; iron projections (hames) that surround the padding contain eyepieces for the reins and traces.
Read More