About The Breed
The Norman Cob, or Cob Normand, is the lightest of France’s draft horse breeds, prized for its versatility, strength, and calm temperament. Originally developed from Anglo-Norman horses crossed with Norfolk Trotters and Thoroughbreds, the breed was used in the 19th century primarily as a carriage horse and later for military and agricultural work. Standing between 1.55–1.70 m (15.2–16.3 hh) and typically bay, chestnut, or dark nearly black, Norman Cobs are valued today for riding, driving, sport, and even mounted service roles. The breed was officially established in 1950 with its own studbook and continues to be preserved through careful breeding, with roughly 200 foals born annually.
Quest Info
Haras national du Pin, Centre de Valorisation des Équidés Normands, European State Studs Association (ESSA), Muriel Meneux, Nell Emery, Marie Lecerf, Julian Bergeon, Syndicat National des éleveurs et utilisateurs de chevaux Cob Normand, and Les amis des Cob Normand.
Where to Learn More
The Syndicat National des Éleveurs et Utilisateurs de Chevaux Cob Normand maintains the official studbook for the breed and supports breeders in preserving and promoting the Norman Cob. You can visit their website here: https://www.cobnormand.com
