Horse breed
Drafting tradition from France

French Draft Horses, Strength and Regional Heritage

Not at risk
Origin
France
Height
140–175 cm
Coat colours
Bay, Black, Chestnut, Grey, Roan
Temperament
Strong, patient, docile
Best for
Draft work, urban traction, logging, recreation, showing
Studbook since
1919 (Comtois)
Notable breeds
Percheron, Breton, Ardennais, Boulonnais, Comtois, Auxois, Poitevin
Annual registrations
~2,000 (Comtois)

What are French Draft Horses?

French draft horses stand 140–175 cm tall and appear in bay, black, chestnut, grey, or roan coats, with a docile, patient temperament. They serve in draft work, logging, urban traction, recreation, and showing. Notable breeds include the Percheron, Breton, Ardennais, Boulonnais, Comtois, Auxois, Poitevin, and Trait Du Nord. The Comtois studbook dates to 1919.

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Profile: French Draft Horses

All figures are editorial reference values.
Origin
France
Height
140–175 cm
Colours
Bay, Black, Chestnut, Grey, Roan
Best for
Draft work, urban traction, meat production, logging, recreation, showing
Studbook since
1919 (Comtois stud-book)
Population
~2,000 births/year (Comtois)
Risk status
Not at risk (French draft horse breeds in general)

Which breeds belong to French Draft Horses?

Horse in pasture
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Percheron

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Breton

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Ardennais

Horse in pasture
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Boulonnais

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Comtois

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Auxois

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Poitevin

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Trait du Nord

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