Ardennes

Overall description of the breed

The Ardennais is a draft horse breed originating from the wooded and hilly regions of the Ardennes, an area that spans parts of Belgium, France, and Luxembourg. This breed is one of the oldest in Europe, with origins dating back to Roman times. Historically, Ardennais horses were used as war horses and later as draft horses for agriculture and industry.

Ardennais horses are large, powerful, and robust. They typically stand between 15 and 16 hands high (60 to 64 inches) at the withers and weigh between 1,760 and 2,200 pounds. Their bodies are massive, with broad and deep chests, muscular shoulders, and short, strong backs. Their limbs are strong and thick, well-suited for heavy draft work. Their heads are large and expressive, with broad foreheads and gentle, intelligent eyes. Ardennais horses can have various coat colors, with bay, roan, and gray being the most common.

In terms of health, Ardennais horses are generally very robust and resilient. They are well adapted to harsh climates and demanding work. Their diet is simple, primarily consisting of hay, straw, and grains. However, like all horses, they require regular veterinary care for vaccinations, deworming, and monitoring of their general condition. Thanks to their solid constitution, they are less prone to diseases than some other horse breeds.

The character of the Ardennais is one of its strengths. These are calm, docile, and very hard-working horses. They are known for their friendliness and patience, making them ideal companions for agricultural and forestry work. Their peaceful nature also makes them suitable for beginners and children. Despite their imposing size, they are very manageable and obedient.

Training and educating Ardennais horses is generally straightforward and not very challenging. Their natural willingness to cooperate and their intelligence make learning easier. They respond well to gentle and positive training methods. It is important to start their education from a young age to establish a solid foundation. Ardennais horses can be trained for riding, but they are especially valued for their draft capabilities. They are often used for logging in forests, plowing fields, and competing in draft horse competitions.

The official studbook of the Ardennais breed is managed by different associations depending on the country. In France, it is maintained by the Société Hippique Française. In Belgium, the Association du Cheval de Trait Ardennais belge takes care of preserving and promoting this breed. The Ardennais is officially recognized by international equestrian authorities and is highly appreciated in draft horse competitions and agricultural fairs.

In summary, the Ardennais is a robust and versatile draft horse breed from the Ardennes. Their large size and strength make them ideal horses for heavy work. Their calm and docile nature makes them easy to educate and train. Well adapted to harsh climates, they are resilient and require regular veterinary care to stay healthy. The Ardennais is officially recognized by international organizations and remains a highly valued breed in the regions where it is traditionally used. Whether for agricultural work, forestry, or competitions, Ardennais horses continue to prove their worth and reliability.