The American Belgian Draught derives from the same original stock, but has developed differently.

The Belgian Draught descends from the heavy farm horses of the region of the Low Countries that is now central Belgium: the Colosse de la Méhaigne[a] from the valley of the Méhaigne in the area of Namur; the Gris de Nivelles et du Hainaut[b], named for Hainaut region and for the city of Nivelles, now in Walloon Brabant; and the Gros de la Dendre[c], named for the Dender river, from East Flanders and the area that is now Flemish Brabant.

Closely related breeds include the Ardennais,[5] Flemish Horse, Nederlands Trekpaard,[6][7] and Trait du Nord.

[8] The American Belgian Draught derives from the same original stock, but has developed differently.

[4]: 166 [3]: 443 [2] The roan coat colour predominates, accounting for about 80% of all of the horses; some 12% are bay, and the remainder chestnut, black or grey.