Meet The Percheron Horse Breed
History, Origins & Use of The Percheron Horse
A breed famously referred to as “gentle giants” of the equine world, the Percheron horse is a powerful draft horse breed. It hails from France. They are known for their muscular physique combined with grace, style, and activity. They give an overall impression of power and balance. Percheron is an ancient horse breed that has gone through many changes over time. New bloodlines have been introduced in this breed over the course of history to refine its features. Percheron horses were originally bred for war. Today they are happy-go-lucky types of horses that love to be under a saddle or in a harness.
Brown Percheron Horse Percheron Horse Running in Spanish Ranch
History
Percheron horses derive their name from the province of Perche in the Huisne river valley in France. Like any ancient breed, their history is also shrouded in myth. Their exact origin is unknown. To some estimates, their ancestors were present in the Huisne valley in the 17th century. The ancient Percheron horses were crossed with Barb horses and Flemish draft breed to increase their load-bearing capacity. Later, the Arabian bloodline was also introduced to increase the athleticism in the breed. French further developed the breed to use it as cavalry horses. They also created the first Percheron studbook in 1833. Percherons were exported to the US in mid 18th century and soon became the most popular draft horses.
Characteristics
Percheron is a giant breed of horse with an average height of 17 hands, and they weigh anywhere between 1800 and 2500 pounds. Percheron horses in the US and Europe differ slightly in characteristics. European Percherons are slightly larger than their US cousins. Today they are found in many colours, but their most common colour is black and grey. Percheron horses are charming and lively. They are intelligent and always eager to please.
Uses
Modern-day Percherons can be seen participating in various equestrian activities. Due to their calm and gentle nature, they are used for confidence building by timid riders. They are a great breed for a family horse, and you can spot them pulling carriages, sleighs, and hayrides in their local community.
Percheron Horses | Power Grace Utility
