1665-1671: The Horse Arrives in New France
In the 17th century, Quebec, then called New France, was a French colony. To meet the military and agricultural needs of the colony, King Louis XIV sent 82 horses from France between 1665 and 1671. These horses, primarily from Brittany and Normandy, were distributed among the nobility, clergy, and some farmers. Farmers had to return a foal to the intendant after three years before they could start selling the offspring. The horses quickly adapted to the harsh climate and demanding labour, leading to the creation of a distinct breed known as the French Canadian Horse.
1759-1850: Decline and Near Extinction
After the British conquest of New France, the French Canadian Horse gained popularity outside Quebec, especially in New England, where its stamina made it a valuable workhorse. Despite its success abroad, the breed suffered at home as British rulers preferred larger draft horses. Crossbreeding with Percherons and Clydesdales, combined with the rise of mechanisation, led to a steep decline in the breed, nearing extinction by the 19th century.
1850-1880: Rescue Efforts Begin
A mid-19th-century report revealed the near disappearance of the French Canadian Horse. Two opposing strategies emerged to save the breed: crossbreeding with draft horses to increase numbers or selective breeding to preserve purebred characteristics. After years of debate, selective breeding was chosen, with incentives like prizes to promote the breeding of pure French Canadian Horses. However, by 1880, the breed was still in danger of disappearing.
1895-1912: Formation of the CHBA
On September 17, 1895, under Dr. Couture’s leadership, the Canadian Horse Breeders Association (CHBA) was established. Interestingly, it was around this time that the “French” designation, used to differentiate the horse from English Canadian breeds, disappeared. Over the next decade, the studbook expanded to include 1,802 horses.
In 1900, the Canadian government created the Canadian Livestock Records Corporation (CLRC) to oversee pedigree registries. In 1906, the CHBA became a federal organisation, granting it access to government funding for breed preservation projects, including exhibitions and breeding farms.
The stud book’s initial criteria were reassessed, and a second, more stringent stud book was created, registering 1,555 horses by 1912.
1907: The Canadian Horse Standard is Defined
In 1907, Dr. Couture established a formal standard for the Canadian Horse, detailing characteristics such as size and weight. Stallions were set to a maximum height of 15.3 hands, while mares were capped at 15.2 hands. The ideal weight range for stallions was 1,100 to 1,350 pounds, and for mares, it was 1,050 to 1,250 pounds. The standard was revised in 1991, with height limits adjusted to a minimum of 14 hands and a maximum of 16 hands for both stallions and mares.
1913-1944: Research and Development Stations
In 1913, a federal breeding station dedicated to the Canadian Horse was established in Cap-Rouge. This station’s successful breeding program led to the opening of a second station in St-Joachim, where the herd expanded to include 30 additional mares. Research at the station guided the breed’s development, with breeders’ unions helping to increase the population significantly.
However, World War II brought an end to government funding for the breed, and the herd was divided among various farms and breeders.
1940-1981: The Deschambault Era
For nearly four decades, the Deschambault farm played a key role in preserving the breed. Initially, the farm focused on replacing interbred horses with purebred Canadian horses. Over time, its mission evolved to protect the breed’s heritage and safeguard specific bloodlines. Breeders would gather annually at Deschambault to showcase their best horses.
In the 1970s, research stopped, and interest in the program waned as breeding goals shifted towards creating more athletic horses. By 1981, Deschambault closed its doors, and the horses were sold at auction.
1981-2002: A Revival of Interest
Although the Quebec government remained involved in supporting breeders until 1995, it eventually withdrew its support. However, in 1999, the National Assembly of Quebec passed Bill 199, declaring the Canadian Horse a part of Quebec’s agricultural heritage, alongside the Canadian cow and Chantecler chicken. Three years later, the federal government passed Bill S-22, officially recognising the Canadian Horse as the national horse of Canada.
Since the early 2000s, efforts to promote the breed have been led by provincial associations, where breeders and enthusiasts continue to celebrate the Canadian Horse’s legacy.
2000 and Beyond: The Future of the Canadian Horse
Despite its rich history, the Canadian Horse has yet to find its place in a modern, leisure-oriented world. However, its versatility, gentle temperament, and work ethic make it an excellent choice for riders and drivers alike. While it may not excel in specialised disciplines, its courage and determination are undeniable.
The breed remains at risk of extinction, with fewer than 7,000 registered horses and an ageing population that is not producing enough offspring. Every day is crucial for the future of the Canadian Horse, and continued efforts are essential to ensure its survival for generations to come.