French Trotter horses for sale in Southampton, Southampton

The French Trotter, also known as the "Trotteur Français," is a distinguished horse breed originating from Normandy, France, in the early 19th century. It was bred specifically for harness racing, combining local Norman carriage horses with Thoroughbreds and Norfolk Roadsters to create a horse with speed, stamina, and a strong trotting gait. Physically, the breed is athletic and powerful, standing between 15.3 to 16.3 hands tall, with a well-proportioned head, muscular neck, and strong legs designed for high-speed racing. The French Trotter is known for its keen temperament – willing, courageous, and intelligent – making it suitable not only for competitive racing but also for leisure riding and driving. This versatility, combined with its spirited yet manageable nature, makes it well-suited for experienced handlers. Popular in France for monté (under saddle) races, the French Trotter excels in longer-distance events and has gained international recognition. Its distinctive trot, avoiding pacing, and the breed’s dedication to harness performance set it apart from other trotters, particularly the Standardbred. Keywords include French Trotter, Trotteur Français, monté racing, harness racing, and trotting gait.