by Linda Ann Nickerson

Created on: April 24, 2007   Last Updated: June 25, 2009

THE GENTLE GIANT

From Medieval times, the Percheron has been a warhorse and a workhorse, performing both tasks with gentle grace, firm faithfulness, and a mighty motor.

Originated in the LaPerche Valley, about an hour's drive south of Paris, this powerful horse draws its ancestry from ancient draft horses and the original Arabian bloodlines. He served as the preferred mount for knights of the Middle Ages and also pulled stagecoaches for the gentry.

ENORMOUS, BUT ELEGANT

Usually standing 16 to 17 hands high, the Percheron is marked by high wide brow and distinctive profile. Everything about him is huge: his giant ears, his massive neck, broad chest, big barrel, and powerful flanks. He is, however, somewhat short-backed for his size.

A Percheron may tip the scales from 1,800 to 2,600 pounds.

His mane is coarse, textured, and thick.

Percherons may be black or grey, often with dappled coats. Occasionally, a bay, chestnut, roan, or sorrel may be found as well.

A PLEASING PERSONALITY

The proud Percheron is kind, alert, and eager to please. His intelligent nature makes him extremely trainable. He tends to be an easy keeper, as he is a willing eater and an amendable pasture pal.

A MULTI-TALENTED WORKER

Percherons are ideal for heavy-load operations, such as plowing and hauling. (They were the preferred plow horses in the days before motorized tractors and farm equipment.)

Because they have the ability to move with grace and power, they are excellent for light driving, pleasure riding, and the show ring.

Despite their stupendous stature, these horses tend to be tranquil and tractable. For timid, young or beginning riders, I would choose a Percheron over a pony any day!

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