The Canadian Horse has evolved over the last 350 years to become a distinct breed and has virtually remained unchanged, however the world has changed and is forever changing and the Canadian Horse must find its place in it. As our horses start to compete in open shows, not only in driving, but jumping, dressage and eventing, they will have crossed the threshold into the modern equine world and will start a new page in their history. As frightening as this may be for some traditionalists, it is inevitable.

In addition, we must also become accustomed to modern terminology, becoming familiar with terms such as “Warmblood” and “Sporthorse”. These terms are used almost synonymously today. As defined in the Animal Pedigree Act of Canada, a “Warmblood” is not a distinct breed but is a category for a type of horse that is used today in competitions worldwide. There are the “hot bloods” such as the Arabs and Thoroughbreds, bred for speed. The “cold bloods” such as the Clydesdales, Belgians, Percherons and Shires bred for heavy work. And the Warmblood is everything in between used for participation in both riding and driving sports. Our horses may be referred to as Warmbloods or Sporthorses but this does not change the fact that they are still Canadians.

Also, there is still some controversy regarding the true size of the Canadian Horse. The breed standard is 14-16hh according to the mandate of the BCCHD, and will remain so until otherwise notified by the CHBA. It must be noted, however, that 14.2hh and under is recognized, not only nationally, but also internationally as a pony in any breed standard. Unfortunately, the CHBA is not set up like other registries having separate sport pony sections or like the Welsh Cob Registry having A, B and C sections according to height and type. Perhaps in future this may change but despite the size of any Canadian horse they are all “traditional” if they qualify to be registered. There is a strong feeling that breeders are breeding taller in order to change the Canadian to make it fit into today’s modern world. This is not true. The breed is getting taller naturally by the process of natural evolution. The Canadian no longer has to endure poor diet and care and harsh living conditions, the tall genes are there and they will come out and people in today’s market appreciate a taller horse. This is not a perceived market trend but a cold hard fact. However there is no need to modify our Canadian Horse, they should remain what they have been, a wonderful, intelligent, kind, even-tempered, versatile horse. They are a gift. It is their purity that sets them apart and there are many of us who are dedicated to preserving the integrity of the breed and realize the importance of a proper and legal record system, which we have through the CHBA and the CLRC.

No matter what our opinions are there is one thing which we all have in common when it comes to this breed and that is the love we all have for the Canadian Horse. If only we as owners could live by their example of kindness and intelligence, we could bring a little bit of peace and nobility the world. Wishing you all the best in the coming year.

Kim Deutsch

Copyright © 2007 HeatherBrae Farms - No content to be used without permission.