The Canadian horse can be traced back to king Louis XIV of France who exported horses to the New World in the late 17th century.

These horses were Breton and Norman descent and it is believed that some were Arab, Andalusian and Barb blood present.

The breed was used to improve and contribute to the foundation of other breeds, such as the American Saddle bred, the Standard bred, Morgan and Tennessee walking horse, and were exported to other countries.

They were very popular in the United States and the demand was so great that by the late 1970’s pure-Canadian-horses were on the verge of extinction with numbers decreased to around 400.

In 1895 the Canadian-Horse Breeders Association was formed, the breed was still classed as "critical” but the numbers began to slowly rise due to dedicated breeders.

Black horse

The breed is famed for it’s hardiness, strength and stamina and has earned the nickname “the Little Iron Horse”.

It is able to endure the freezing winter months and long hot summers and working conditions.

They are hardy, willing and adaptable with a good temperament. Their height ranges from 14hh to 16hh (1.40 – 1.60m).

Black is the predominant colour but dark brown, bay or chestnut is also seen.

Having large and expressive eyes, well-structured head and delicate ears.

Their build is very muscular, compact and stout, with a naturally animated gaits.

They are known for having a heavy and wavy mane and tail, good bone and good feet (all reminiscence of Andalusian and Barb ancestry).

They are considered to have soundness, hardiness and endurance.

They are willing horses and easy keepers.

Today, many Canadian Horses are bred for driving.

However, they also compete in a wide range of riding disciplines, and some are still used as work horses for farming.

They are used for riding; trail riding, harness work and competitions.

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