Norman Cob

What do you know about the Norman Cob horse?

Chances are, unless you’re a horse lover or enthusiast, not much.

This hardy breed of draft horse has been used in the area for centuries, and today they are still a common sight on the farms of Normandy.

If you’re interested in learning more about this interesting breed, read on!

Norman Cob Breed Info

Here are some of the key things you need to know about the Norman Cob:

Height (size) 15.1 – 16.3 hands high
Colors Bay, chestnut, seal brown; white markings are common
Country of Origin France
Common Uses Recreational and competitive driving, pleasure riding; lighter Norman Cobs are used for hunting, and when crossed with Thoroughbreds they make wonderful all-purpose saddle horses

Norman Cob Facts & Information (Breed Profile)

The Norman Cob was initially developed in the French province of Normandy, thus its name.

It is a descendant of the extinct Carrossier Normand, or Norman horse, and was bred for light draft work.

The Carrossier Normand was a large-boned, sturdy horse known for its incredible endurance and majestic appearance. 

During times of war, it was used to pull artillery and transport heavily armored knights. 

During times of peace, it was used on farms, for long-distance hauling, to pull carriages, and for riding.

As blood from Arabian, Barb, Mecklenburger, Gelderland, Danish, and Norfolk Trotters were added through time, it gradually grew lighter and more elegant.

Napoleon established the National Stud of Saint-Lô in 1806. 

This stud, along with one other stud located in the northwestern part of France, became the primary breeding center for the Norman horse.

Two varieties were developed: a lighter horse for the cavalry and a larger horse for draft labor known as a “cob”. 

Eventually, the lighter kind developed into the Anglo-Norman and the French Trotter, while the heavier type became known as the Norman Cob. 

By the turn of the 20th century, Norman Cobs were regarded as some of the finest carriage horses. 

However the invention of machines, especially the automobile, put an end to the use of carriage horses and made the future of most draft breeds uncertain. 

The lighter Norman horses transitioned to sport and contributed to the development of the Selle Français breed, which is today the national saddle horse of France. 

In the meanwhile, the Norman Cob was used for agricultural work up to the 1950s, and also played an important role in the development of the Selle Français.

The Norman Cob has stayed almost intact over the course of many decades because to the Selle Français breeding program. 

In contrast, other draft breeds have become heavier and slower as a result of selective breeding for the production of meat.

A new studbook for the Norman Cob was ultimately established in 1992, with selection criteria intended to maintain the breed’s qualities, particularly its fluid gaits.

Although the population declined severely in the twentieth century, it has now stabilized as a result of the breed’s growing popularity for recreational and competitive driving, as well as pleasure riding.

If you’re interested in learning more about this fascinating breed, keep reading!

Alternative Names

“Cob Normand”

Temperament/Personality

Calm, willing, patient and have a lot of personality which is why they are not suited for inexperienced owners

Physical Characteristics

The head features a straight or convex profile, and is well-proportioned.

The nostrils are wide and ears are small.

The neck is thick, muscular and arched.

The withers are pronounced.

The chest is wide and deep, and the shoulders are sloped.

The back is strong and short.

The legs are refined, but muscular and have solid bones.

The hooves are hard, round and wide. In appearance, the Norman Cob is most similar to a robust Thoroughbred.

There are still distinguishable types within the breed, and as a result, their weights may range from 550 to 900 kilograms!

Their gait is characterized by a lively extended trot with long strides, and their movements are typically smooth and ground-covering.

Because of their Thoroughbred lineage, they have more energy and agility, and they mature quicker than other draft breeds.

They have a lot of stamina while being ridden, and they can handle the outdoors and varying weather conditions.

The Norman Cob’s tail was traditionally docked, and this practice persisted until January 1996, when it became illegal.

Colors

Bay, chestnut, seal brown; white markings are common

Height (size)

15.1 – 16.3 hands high

Stallions

n/a

Mares

n/a

Weight

1,200 – 2,000 lbs (550 – 900 kg)

Blood Type

Cold

Common Uses

Recreational and competitive driving, pleasure riding; lighter Norman Cobs are used for hunting, and when crossed with Thoroughbreds they make wonderful all-purpose saddle horses

Health

n/a

Popular Traits

n/a

Feeding/Diet

n/a

Country of Origin

France

Ancestors

Carrossier Normand or Norman horse