Meet "Hayes"
North America's oldest equine breed

The Canadian Horse

Also known as "The French Canadian Horse" or "Little Iron Horse", the first Canadian horses arrived in Quebec (then New France) in July 1665. These horses were directly from the stud farm of the King of France, Louis the 14th. Certain horses were given to farmers as their numbers grew, but they remained the property of the King of France for several years longer. The breeds population grew to 24,000 by 1784.

The small, sturdy Canadian Horse was used for hauling, racing, travel and farm work throughout Canadian history. Founded in 1998, the non-profit Association Québécoise du Cheval Canadien [Quebec Canadian Horse Association] (AQCC), has the mission of protecting and improving the Canadian Horse breed in accordance with original standards. Stallions must not exceed 15.3 hh, and weighing 1100-1350 lbs. Mares must not exceed 15.2 hh, and weighing 1050-1250 lbs. The head is courageous looking, perhaps somewhat angular, with the ears far apart, the neck thick, the frame stout, the breast full, the shoulders strong, even rather upright, the back longer rather than short, and sides inclined to flatness, the croup rather round or fleshy with quarters short and somewhat drooping, the muscles well let down and the tendons large, the feet tough. Thick, wavy mane and tail. The Canadian horse has no standard color but the most common colors are black, brown, chestnut or bay.

For more information on the Canadian Horse online...
http://www.ameriquefrancaise.org
https://horse-canada.com
https://www.lechevalcanadien.com

© All rights to the sculpture of Hayes reserved by Trisha Forsyth.