Horse
Breed Description:
The French Trotter breed of horse was developed in Normandy, France, in the 1800s to compete in the new sport of trotting. It is sometimes called the Norman Trotter. They are generally raced in harness, pulling two-wheeled vehicles called sulkies. French Trotters are also used for jumping and riding. The French Trotter breed of horse is selected for functional rather than aesthetic purposes, and there is physical variation within the breed. However, they generally have slightly heavy and large heads with straight or slightly convex profiles and lively ears. They have prominent breastbones. The body of the French Trotter breed of horse is deep through the girth, with shoulders well-suited to the harness. Likewise, their long, well-formed legs give them an active, free stride. They are known for their stamina, toughness, and intelligence. The French Trotter may be any solid color, but is usually bay or chestnut.
Temperament:
The French Trotter breed of horse is willing and energetic, with an even temperament.
Height:
The French Trotter breed of horse stands around 16.2 hands high.
Grooming:
The French Trotter must be groomed regularly. A hard-worked, stabled French Trotter should be thoroughly groomed each day. Hooves should be shod and trimmed regularly.
Origin:
Horses in France first began to be selectively bred for trotting races in the early to mid-1800s. The French Trotter developed primarily from Norman stock that was crossed with English Thoroughbred and half-bred hunter types, the Norfolk Roadster, and some American Standardbred. The early Trotters were heavier and coarser than they are today, as the infusion of Thoroughbred blood has greatly refined the French Trotter breed.
The stud book for the French Trotter breed or horse was created in 1922.
