Selle Français

Looks how to spot one

short, fine coat

The Selle Français has a short, fine coat that is easy to maintain. The breed is athletic and well-proportioned, with a robust frame, strong legs, and a lively, elegant appearance. Conformation can vary because the breed standard focuses on performance rather than a fixed physical type.14

Personality what they are like

The Selle Français is known for its willing, courageous and intelligent nature. It is generally people-oriented, patient and eager to please, with a calm and trainable disposition that makes it suitable for riders of all levels, including novices and children.43

Daily activity how busy a day looks

This breed requires regular, varied exercise and thrives on work. It excels in jumping, dressage, eventing, driving, vaulting and endurance. Because of its willing nature, care must be taken not to overtrain; gradual development is recommended, with serious training often starting around age five.4

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Routine care includes regular hoof trimming every six to eight weeks and shoeing suited to athletic activity. The coat is easy to maintain, though clipping may be needed in winter for horses in heavy work. The mane and tail should be detangled regularly. Good skin hygiene helps prevent skin conditions.3

Home where they are happiest

Selle Français horses need a safe, spacious stable or shelter with access to a well-fenced paddock or pasture. They are very social and enjoy being part of a herd. As easy keepers, care should be taken to avoid overfeeding. They do well on grass hay and alfalfa, supplemented with grain as needed.4

Food basics what goes in the bowl

A forage-first diet built on good-quality hay or pasture is ideal. Concentrates rich in energy, protein and minerals should be added according to workload. Large grain meals and high-starch feeds should be avoided to reduce the risk of laminitis, colic and gastric ulcers.23

Company who they like around

This breed is particularly social and enjoys being in a herd. They make excellent companion horses and are often used as pony horses to lead Thoroughbreds to the starting gate because of their unflappable personalities.4

The story where it all began

The Selle Français was created in December 1958 when several French regional riding horse breeds, including the Anglo-Norman, Vendéen and Charolais, were merged into one stud book. This was a response to the decline in military use of horses and the growing demand for sport horses. The breed was developed by crossing native French mares with Thoroughbred, Anglo-Arabian and Norfolk Trotter stallions, resulting in a versatile, athletic horse that excels in modern equestrian sports.145

Recognised by the official bits

Stud-Book Selle Français (ANSF)

Official stud book for the breed, established in 1958.5