The Norman Cob officially became a breed in the early 1900s. Although the term cob usually denotes a type of horse rather than a breed, the French chose the name because they resembled the English Cob.
A cob is usually an all-rounder, with the ability to carry a rider or work as a draft horse.
The Norman Cob is still bred at the State stud in Le Haras du Pins in Normandy, France, called La Pin National Stud. The Stud is a national institution with 30 government-owned stallions of ten different breeds.
Traditionally, the Norman Cob was used by farmers in Normandy for farm work, driving and riding. The breed is still found in local farms in Normandy.
The Norman Cob is chunky in build yet still possesses very smooth gaits. The most common colors are bay and chestnut; gray is less common. The tails are docked for harness purposes. The Norman Cob stands 15.3 to 16.3 hands high.
Further Reading
Horse Illustrated is the magazine for people who are passionate about horses. Each issue offers advice on horse health and care, plus user-friendly training tips for both English and western riders and engaging lifestyle features for horse lovers.
The American Saddlebred has an unmistakable presence wherever the breed goes, and these horses can…
Dutch Warmbloods, or as their registry in The Netherlands is known, Koninklijk Warmbloed Paardenstamboek Nederland…
Today’s harness racing trotters and pacers can do a lot more than pull a sulky…
From before the Vikings invaded through modern times, the sturdy and faithful Fell Pony has…
Horses in the guest ranch industry come from varied breeds and backgrounds. Learn more about them. The scenery may be…
Thanks to a rail down by overnight leader Tom McEwen (GBR) on the 13-year-old German Warmblood gelding JL Dublin, a…
In a day of heat, then rain, followed by blazing sun, the sun indeed shone brightest on the British riders…
Tom McEwen of Great Britain had a big day under beautiful skies at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Ky.,…
Dressage is halfway complete at the 2024 Defender Kentucky Three-Day event CCI5*-L. Currently in first is Yasmin Ingham of Great…
Welcome to Horse Illustrated’s weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the…