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Desert Norman horse
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Desert Norman horse

Country Of Origin France
History and Background The Desert Norman is essentially a very early form of the Percheron breed, which started out as a much more refined horse than the massive animal it is today. The breed began in La Perche, a district of Normandy southwest of Paris, France - one of the oldest horse-breeding areas in the world. Here in 732 A.D., Arabian horses abandoned by Moors after their defeat in the Battle of Tours, were crossed with the massive Flemish stock and from this cross came the Percheron type which has endured for twelve centuries.
During the Crusades, further infusions of Arab blood were made. Arab sires procured in the Holy Land were bred to the Percheron. In the early 1800s the French Government's Stud at La Pin introduced further Arab blood into the Percheron breed by covering selected mares with two outstanding grey Arab sires. Now all contemporary Percherons share this common heritage - grey or black in colour - courtesy of the foundation stock that originated in Le Perche.
This cross created a versatile horse suited for driving, riding or farm work - a safe and sturdy ride for adults, and forgiving teachers for young riders. But as the Industrial Revolution dawned at the beginning of the Nineteenth Century, the changing demands for agriculture and transportation began favoring a heavier animal, and Percheron breeders responded by producing the large and powerful horse we know today.
Now, the breed is coming full circle back to its early roots, its popularity fuelled by modern-day horse people involved in all manner of recreational and competitive equestrian activity. The ancient, elegant and endlessly versatile Arab-Percheron melding which began 1200 years ago, has a newfound following.
Use Today Pleasure horse, Show horse, Driving horse
Height 14 and 14.3 hands high (56-57 inches, 142-145 centimeters)
Colour Black, Grey
Characteristics This handsome, athletic horse was no doubt known for its versatility centuries ago - a carriage horse, a stylish saddle horse, and a safe horse for the older rider. Great physical ability and the breed’s extraordinary temperament and intelligence, make the Desert Norman the original sport horse.
Personality and Temperament Intelligent, patient and willing.
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