Horse breeds / Berrichon horse
Photo: Unknown author · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Horse breed
Berrichon horse
The Berrichon, sometimes called the Cheval de Trait Berrichon, comes from the Berry region of central France. It was developed as a versatile farm horse, used for draft work in the fields, for light haulage, and as a general-purpose working animal on the small holdings of the region.
Berrichons are known as calm, honest, and willing workers with a steady, practical nature. They are generally sensible and easy to handle, which makes them a reasonable choice for owners who want a sturdy, good-natured horse for driving or light riding rather than a showy performer. Their way of going is solid and deliberate rather than quick or flashy, and they are often kind enough for less experienced handlers when given consistent care.
Day to day, a Berrichon needs regular work to stay fit and content, along with turnout in a safe paddock where it can move freely. Like most draft-type horses it does best with routine, good hoof care, and the companionship of other horses, as it can become bored or restless when kept alone for long periods.
Good for: Experienced owners, driving, farm work, light haulage
| Size | medium |
| Weight | 1102–1433 lb |
| Height | 59–63 in |
| Life span | 25–30 years |
| Exercise | about 60 min a day |
| Shedding | heavy |
| Origin | France |
Berrichons are steady and kind, but they are heavier horses that need consistent routine, good weight management, and regular hoof care.
Living with a Berrichon horse
Exercise
A healthy adult Berrichon typically needs regular daily work along with turnout to stay fit and settled. Lack of exercise can lead to weight gain, stiffness, and restlessness that shows up as unwanted behavior under saddle or in harness.
Grooming
The Berrichon has a dense coat that is usually a bay, chestnut, or roan color with a thick winter coat. Regular brushing keeps the coat clean and healthy, and hooves need routine trimming or shoeing. Clipping is usually only needed for horses in regular work during cold months.
At home
Berrichons are hardy and generally cope well with turnout in most weather, provided they have shelter from wind, rain, and heat. Stabling is usually needed only for medical or workload reasons. They tend to do well in a herd, and being kept alone can lead to boredom. Most are easy keepers, so good pasture and measured hay often cover their needs, though feed should be adjusted to body condition and workload.
Training
Berrichons learn steadily and respond well to patient, consistent handling. They are most often used in harness, for driving, light haulage, and general farm work, and many also take to gentle trail riding. A green Berrichon will usually be slow to mature and will need time and repetition, so expect a gradual process rather than rapid results.
Health
Like many heavier horses, Berrichons can be prone to conditions such as laminitis and other metabolic issues, especially when overweight. Breed-specific information is limited, so ask a veterinarian about screening and preventive care for your individual horse.
- Laminitis
- Metabolic issues
- Joint problems
Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.
The numbers for a Berrichon horse
Forage and water, adult
19–32 lb of hay a day
Forage at 1.5–2.5% of body weight at 1102–1433 lb, and 11–20 gallons of water, more in heat and on hay alone. Grain only for the work being done.
What a year costs
$3,450–$5,750
Hay about $2,234, 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 Berrichon 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 Berrichon horse
Shelters and breed rescues list Berrichon horses and Berrichon horse mixes every week. Search adoptable Berrichon horses on Petfinder → New to the breed? The first-horse kit →
Is a Berrichon horse right for you?
- Yes if you want a calm, sturdy horse for driving or light work.
- Yes if you have room for a companion horse or herd turnout.
- Yes if you enjoy slow, steady training with patience.
- Think twice if you want a fast, athletic horse for competition.
- Think twice if you have limited time for daily work and care.
Questions owners ask
Is the Berrichon good for beginners?
It can suit a beginner who has access to experienced guidance, as Berrichons are generally calm and sensible. Their size and strength still call for careful, knowledgeable handling.
How much does a Berrichon cost?
Prices vary by region, age, training, and bloodlines. Rare breeds can be harder to find, so check with breed registries and reputable breeders for current figures.
How tall is a Berrichon?
Berrichons typically stand around 150 to 160 centimetres at the withers. Individual horses may vary somewhat from that range.
How long do Berrichon horses live?
Berrichons often live into their mid-to-late twenties with good care. Diet, weight, hoof health, and regular veterinary attention all affect lifespan.
What is the Berrichon used for?
They were developed as farm and draft horses and are most often used for driving, light haulage, and general work. Many also enjoy gentle trail riding.
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.