The
Ardennes or
Ardennais is one of the oldest
breeds of
draft horse, and originates from the
Ardennes area in
Belgium,
Luxembourg and
France. They are heavy-boned with thick legs and are used for draft work. The Ardennes is found in many
colors, although
black horses are very rare and are not allowed to be registered with the
breed registry. Their history reaches back to
Ancient Rome, and throughout the years blood from several other breeds has been added to the Ardennes, although only the
Belgian breed had any significant impact. The first Ardennes were imported to the United States in the early 20th century, and the first breed registry was established in Europe in 1929. The horses have been used throughout history as
war horses, both as
cavalry mounts and to draw
artillery, and are used today mainly for heavy draft and farm work, meat production and competitive
driving events. They have also been used to influence or create several other horse breeds throughout Europe and Asia.
Description
Ardennes generally stand between high, and weigh between . Their heads are heavy, with a broad face and a straight or slightly convex profile. Their
conformation is broad and muscular, with a compact body, short back, and short, sturdy legs with strong joints. Their
fetlocks are feathered. Their coats may be
bay,
roan,
chestnut,
gray, or
palomino.
Black...
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