A Canadian What?

It's not unusual for someone to have not heard of the Canadian Horse. They are critically endangered here in the States and are listed as "vulnerable" in Canada. But they are indeed a breed. In fact, they are the oldest distinct breed of horse in N. America. Despite this fact, when I tell people I breed Canadians, many times the response is... "A Canadian What? Warmblood? Thoroughbred Cross? Sport Horse? Chunk?"


No... just Canadians!


Canadians are unique and an excellent mount for just about everyone

There is a plethora of information out there about the breed and I’ve included some links should you want more information. But here’s what makes this horse unique and an excellent mount for everyone from the casual rider to upper level competitor...

  • Canadians are incredibly versatile and were bred to be so. There are Canadians competing in everything from FEI levels of dressage to beating quarter horses by dozens of seconds in Extreme Cowboy. They are particularly suited to disciplines that provide a variety of challenges like eventing, equitation, combined driving and TREC.
  • Canadians are warmblood and sport horse eligible in the US, making them an affordable alternative to many other breeds.
  • The breed has a range of conformation types, making the addage "there's a Canadian for everyone," just about true. With the breed standard between 14.2hh and 16hh, 1000 to 1400 pounds you can find short stocky horses to tall, lighter builds and everything in between while still maintaining the uniquely Canadian look and temperament.
  • Despite the tendency of being a heavier horse, Canadians can be very light footed and flexible. Many times I have heard owners say judges, fellow competitors and even trainers underestimate the talent of the breed -- only to be surprised by what they are capable.
  • Canadians have legs with dense, strong bones and substantial, rugged feet, making them sound and hearty.
  • Canadians are strong and have stamina. Known to out-pull larger breeds, they earned the nick name "The Little Iron Horse."
  • Canadians have an unusual connection to their "people." Repeatedly, owners say they have never had a connection to another horse or breed like they do with their Canadians.
  • Canadians are highly intelligent. They are puzzle solvers and retain their training. Trainers often comment that they can "pick up where they left off" and build on skills as opposed to having to re-teach before moving on. This intelligence also makes them naturally curious and not as flighty as other breeds.
  • Canadians are extremely easy-keepers. So much so that many new owners make the mistake of over-feeding. It is not unusual for a Canadian who is regularly worked to subsist in good flesh with little to no grain and four flakes of good, first cut hay a day.
  • Canadians have a colorful and incredible history -- beginning in the stables of King Louis XIV, through the founding of Canada to helping the North win the Civil War. If you're a history buff or looking for a breed with an amazing story, the Canadian provides that in spades!
  • You can't beat the beauty of the Canadian. Thick, long and flowing manes and tails, alert well-spaced eyes, beautiful heads and an array of colors make the Canadian a real head-turner!

Canadian Horse Links and Information

Check out these websites and pages for more information regarding the Canadian Horse:

Three Fold Farm
Three Fold Playboy Yseult

Photo by Zach Staude, © Three Fold Farm.