The Boulonnais - named after the town of Boulogne, in North West France - is a powerful but elegant cold-blood.
It is set apart from other cold-blooded breeds because of the qualities it has inherited from its hot-blooded ancestors. Early in its history the Boulonnais was bred with Arabs and Barbs. It displays the characteristics of both. For example, the Boulonnais is fast as well as strong, and is well proportioned despite its immense size.
Before the days of motorised transport, the Boulonnais was employed to pull coaches, because it could provide the power and speed needed. It was especially useful for transporting fresh fish and sea food form the coast to Paris. For this reason it earned the name 'Mareyeur' which means 'seller of fish' in French.
APPEARANCE.
The Boulonnais is large and heavy. Its body is deep and wide, and its back is broad. It has a short head with a straight face - the forehead is flat and its large eyes are alert. Like its hot-blooded ancestors the Boulonnais has a silky coat and luxurious, thick mane hair.
HEIGHT.
16hh to 17hh.
COLOUR.
Most often shades of grey, but sometimes black, bay, red roan, blue roan or chestnut.
PERSONALITY.
Although it is massively built the Boulonnais has a lively temperament and a very gentle nature.
In some regions Boulonnais horses are still used as farm workers, but with modern machinery and methods of transport their uses are limited. However, Boulonnais are kept at National Government-funded studs to endure that this impressive breed does not disappear completely.
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