Pfalz-Ardenner

The Pfalz-Ardenner or Pfalz Ardenner Kaltblut is a German breed of heavy draught horse.

As the name suggests, it originates in the Pfalz or Rhineland-Palatinate, and derives from the Ardennais horses of Belgium, France and Luxembourg.

CAB International[3]: 495  and the Delachaux[4]: 217  guide indicate an average height of 1.52 m to 1.62 m, which is according to the breed's studbook regulations.

[6]: 2 All colors are permitted,[3]: 495  but the most common, according to the Delachaux guide, are bay, chestnut, black, gray, and roan.

Selection is based on character, favoring horses that are gentle, versatile, well-balanced, and suitable for recreational activities.

The breed was originally intended for use in agriculture and as a skidding horse, but motorization has greatly reduced these activities.

[3]: 495 [4]: 217 Combined driving, skidding (and other agricultural and forestry work), and pleasure riding[3]: 495 [4]: 217 [6]: 2  are the uses of the Pfalz-Ardenner today.

[8]: 17  Locally it is classified as an "endangered population" (Phänotypische Erhaltungspopulation: vom Aussterben bedroht)[5]: 15  because there are less than 50 individuals.

Despite these very low numbers, the situation of the Pfalz-Ardenner is actively monitored in Germany, with H. Haring stating in 2005 that "the conservation of this breed group (German draft horses) can be considered secured".