Intro
A robust and hardy animal, the Cheval de race Auvergne or Auvergne horse still bears the look of a warhorse. Like many draft-types, the advent of machinery created dwindling numbers however there are recent efforts to keep their bloodlines going. The can be found in the Puy-de-Dôme and Cantal areas.
Origins
This breed dates back to sometime around the year 732 when animals of Eastern origins were left in the Auvergne. These animals are well-adapted to life on rugged mountain terrain and maintain a hardy constitution that is resistant to disease and weather. Over the years, this horse has been known by many names Jument de Fay, Ragot du Béal, Lozero, Cantalou, Aumontois and Ragot d’Auvergne.
17th Century Types
In the 17th century the breed was divided into two branches.
War Horse Model – To get a robust animal fit for battle English Thoroughbred & Anglo-Arab blood was added. This type eventually lost the original qualities of the Auvergne breed. Their breeding was discontinued.
Agriculture Horse Model – These animals were bred specifically for use on farms and managed to remain handy enough to survive. They saw their heyday in the late 18th & early 19th centuries.
Flirting With Extinction
In the late 20th century, their numbers dwindled dangerously low. A few local breeders created an association to safeguard the ancient bloodlines and revive the breed. They began by partitioning 32 animals to establish a breeding program in the hopes of improving qualities and raising numbers. At the end of 2012 the breed was officially recognized and breeding programs appear to be working.
Features
Average height 14.2 – 15.2 hands
Incredibly sure-footed
Physique
Head is small with straight profile and a fox nse
Ears are small
Eyes are bright and almond shaped, with heavy eyebrow arches
Neck is round and short
Mane and tail are thick and wavy
Feet are round and sound
Traditional Colors
Temperament
Docile and energetic
Social, hardy and versatile
Use
War horse
Agriculture work
Transport
Helpful Links
Cheval de race Auvergne, Association nationale du cheval de race Auvergne
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