History Of The Selle Francais Horse

In 1665 the first National Stud in France was established dedicated to improving the quality of performance horse breeding and during the 19th century Thoroughbreds and Norfolk Trotters were imported to cross with native stock to produce the French Trotter and the Anglo-Norman that existed in two types: a saddle type and a draught type.

After World War II breeders in France crossed regional breeds with the saddle type Anglo-Norman to produce horses with speed, stamina and agility. The sports horses that emerged were given the name "Le Cheval de Selle Francais" (the French Saddle Horse) in 1958 and in 1965 the first stud book was published.

Height Of The Selle Francais Horse

The Selle Francais horse stands 16 hh or over.

Colour Of The Selle Francais Horse

Selle Francais horses are most often chestnut or bay but other colours exist.

Breed Characteristics Of The Selle Francais Horse

The Selle Francais horse has a refined head, long elegant neck, sloping shoulders, strong body and broad powerful hindquarters.

Temperament Of The Selle Francais Horse

The Selle Francais horse is bold, intelligent and easily trainable.

Uses Of The Selle Francais Horse

Selle Francais horses make excellent show jumpers but they are also used for dressage, eventing and racing as well as as a general riding horse.