Brittany, in north-west France, is the home of the Breton - an energetic cob-type breed, which is valued by farmers for agricultural work.
There are three different types of Breton, which together meet the needs of the local people. All are descendants of the native Brittany horse. The biggest is the Draught which is bred mainly in the northern coastal area of Brittany. Its ancestors were massive horses, so the Draught is suitable for heavy farm work, pack work and transport.
The Postier Breton is a finer breed because it has warm-blooded ancestors. Bred in central Brittany, it makes a good coach horse and is capable of light farm work.
The Corlay Breton - which is now extremely rare - is the lightest of the three. In the past, its hot-blooded ancestry made it an elegant carriage horse which was also popular for riding.
APPEARANCE.
In general, the Breton has a broad, straight face, bright eyes and small ears. The neck is short and strong and the shoulders are sloping. The Breton has a short, muscular back and limbs, giving it great power. There are very little feather on the legs.
HEIGHT.
The different types of Breton range from 14.3hh to 16.2hh.
COLOUR.
Strawberry or blue roan, chestnut or bay.
PERSONALITY.
The Postier is lively and good-natured and makes a willing, hard worker. The Draught, like all cold bloods, has great power and strength.
Back to Breeds.
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