Horse breeds / Anglo-Norman horse
Photo: Unknown author · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Horse breed
Anglo-Norman horse
The Anglo-Norman is a French warmblood developed in Normandy from the mid-1800s, when breeders crossed Norman draft-type mares with Thoroughbred stallions. The aim was a versatile riding horse that could serve the cavalry, the country gentleman and the sport rider. The breed was later absorbed into the French Selle Français, which now carries much of its blood and is among the most important sport horse populations in the world.
Anglo-Normans are athletic, bold and forward-moving, with a scopey stride and a good jump. They are rarely lazy, so they suit riders who want energy with a willing attitude. Their sensitivity means they respond best to clear, consistent aids. Experienced amateurs usually handle them more easily than true beginners, though a patient, well-matched partner can do well.
Day to day, these horses need regular turnout, steady work several times a week, and good company. A bored Anglo-Norman can become fizzy or difficult, so structured exercise and varied schooling help keep them content and sound.
Good for: Experienced amateurs, sport riders, jumpers
| Size | large |
| Weight | 1102–1323 lb |
| Height | 63–67 in |
| Life span | 25–30 years |
| Exercise | about 60 min a day |
| Shedding | moderate |
| Origin | France |
Anglo-Normans are sensitive and forward, so a first-time owner should seek an experienced instructor and a calm, well-schooled individual.
Living with a Anglo-Norman horse
Exercise
Most Anglo-Normans need about an hour of ridden or in-hand work on most days, with at least several hours of turnout. Without enough exercise they can become tense, mouthy or hard to manage under saddle.
Grooming
The coat is fine and short in summer, thickening in winter, and is usually easy to keep clean. Manes and tails are typically fine and need gentle detangling. Hooves need regular trimming or shoeing every four to eight weeks. Clipping is often needed for horses in regular work during cold months.
At home
Anglo-Normans are sturdy and generally adapt well to a range of climates when they have shelter from wind and wet. Most do well with daily turnout and a stable or run-in for bad weather. They are happiest with a companion, either a stablemate or a calm horse in a neighboring paddock. Their feed needs vary with workload; many are moderate keepers, but hard-working horses may need additional calories and careful forage management.
Training
Anglo-Normans learn quickly and enjoy a job, so they take well to dressage, eventing, show jumping and hunter classes. They are less commonly used for trail or western work, though a calm individual can adapt. A green Anglo-Norman tends to be forward and sensitive, needing a steady, consistent rider who rewards progress and does not overface the horse before its basics are solid.
Health
The breed is generally sound, but as a sport horse population it can be prone to the orthopedic issues common in warmbloods, such as joint problems and hoof conditions. Ask a veterinarian about pre-purchase exams and screening for any conditions relevant to the individual horse.
- Joint problems
- Hoof conditions
- Respiratory issues
Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.
The numbers for a Anglo-Norman horse
Forage and water, adult
18–30 lb of hay a day
Forage at 1.5–2.5% of body weight at 1102–1323 lb, and 11–19 gallons of water, more in heat and on hay alone. Grain only for the work being done.
What a year costs
$3,300–$5,550
Hay about $2,102, plus farrier every 6–8 weeks, routine vet, dental and dewormer. Board, lessons and showing on top; US averages.
Weather
Watch above 80°F, stop at 90°F
Blanket or shelter below 10°F. Horses mind heat more than cold: with shelter and water most are fine to about 10°F unclipped, and above a heat index of 150 (air °F + humidity %) ride early or not at all.
Where a Anglo-Norman horse is comfortable
Easy most of the year: Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Washington, DC, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.
Summer needs care (early rides, shade, fans): Arizona, Nevada, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah.
Winter needs care (blanket, shelter, water that is not frozen): North Dakota.
From typical July highs and January lows by state and this breed's heat and cold limits. Shade, shelter and water change everything; this is about turnout and work.
Right now
Latest feed recalls
Multiple Brand Names: Chicken Feed, Swine Feed, Cattle Feed, Horse Feed
ADM Animal Nutrition · Apr 1 · Specific lots may contain elevated levels of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium and/or chloride and may harm chickens, swine, beef cattle and equine.
Rescue a Anglo-Norman horse
Shelters and breed rescues list Anglo-Norman horses and Anglo-Norman horse mixes every week. Search adoptable Anglo-Norman horses on Petfinder → New to the breed? The first-horse kit →
Is a Anglo-Norman horse right for you?
- Yes if you want an energetic, athletic riding horse.
- Yes if you ride regularly and enjoy training.
- Yes if you want to compete in dressage, eventing or jumping.
- Think twice if you are a nervous or inexperienced rider.
- Think twice if you can only ride once a week.
Questions owners ask
Are Anglo-Normans good for beginners?
Usually not as a first horse. They are sensitive and forward, so they suit intermediate or experienced riders who can give consistent aids.
How much does an Anglo-Norman cost?
Prices vary widely with age, training and bloodlines. Young or unbroken horses cost less, while trained sport prospects cost considerably more.
How tall are Anglo-Normans?
They typically stand about 160 to 170 centimeters at the withers, roughly 16 to 16.3 hands, though individuals vary.
How long do Anglo-Normans live?
With good care they commonly live into their mid-20s to around 30 years, and many remain useful well into their later years.
Are Anglo-Normans easy keepers?
Most are moderate keepers. Working horses may need extra feed, while those in light work can maintain condition on good forage.
Similar breeds
Written by Hoofdeck editors · updated Nov 13, 2026 · facts from Wikidata and Wikimedia Commons; health notes are general veterinary guidance, not a diagnosis.