French Cob

The French Cob is a very rare horse breed which is also identified as the “Cob Normande”. This breed typically pulls grand carriages and participates in simple farm work.

Physical Characteristics

Although a rare breed, the French Cob is a horse with very good body structure. The French Cob is usually bay or gray. It has a heavy body with a chest that is deep. Its hips are also bulky and broad. The mane and tail has long and luscious hair. The body type is fit for draft and riding. It is a large horse which usually stands 15.3 to 16.3 hand high (61-65 inches, 155-165 centimeters).

Personality and Temperament

The French Cob is usually a very calm animal. It is easy to control and very submissive, but is usually lively and has a magnificent gait. It moves like a ballet dancer, jumping and galloping with fine elegance. That’s why the breed is used to pull carriages. A French Cob defines sophistication and the power to control agility and strength.

Care

The French Cob risks becoming extinct. These horses have been used for riding and easy labor. Aside from using them as a means of transportation, they have also been used for their meat. The French Cob produces high-quality meat with an exquisite taste. Breeders have been developing studs for this horse breed in order to preserve their blood for many years to come.

History and Background

The French Cob is considered to be one of the oldest horse breeds, existing for many centuries. Before the breed spread through France, it was predominantly available in Normandy. That’s why these horses have been called “half-breeds” for years. It is quite astonishing that breeds originating from the Norman Coach Horse have always been recognized for their ability to work with carriages and perform farm work.