The Percheron is a French breed. They are very handsome and

hard-working animals. It is one of the oldest working horse breeds.

It's name comes from the area of origin - "La Perche" - in the

northwest region of the country. There is a lot of arabian and asian

blood used in the creation of these animals. It is believed that the

strong Flemmish workhorses were also used to develop the breed.

During the Middle Ages they too carried knights in armor. Today

they are still used on the farm for hauling as well as in shows and to

pull carriages.

The Percheron has a fine head with a straight face, bright eyes and

flared nostrils that show it's Arabian ancestry. It's neck is quite long

and arched. The body is short, deep and strong. It's chunky legs

have good movement which is striding, free and full of energy. They

have very little feathering. Percherons are mostly gray, but can also

be black or roan. They stand at 15.2-16.2 hands high on the average

but have been known to be larger than this. They are strong, energetic,

quiet and good natured horses.