English
The Auxois horse is a rare draft breed native to the Burgundy region of France.
Developed for strength, stamina, and a calm temperament, the Auxois has long served as a reliable partner in agriculture, forestry, and transportation. Today, the breed is still valued for its gentle nature and muscular build.
As one of the heaviest French draft breeds, the Auxois is known for its broad frame, deep chest, and efficient movement. Despite their size, Auxois horses are remarkably docile and easy to handle. Like many cold-blooded draft horses, the Auxois has unique care requirements, particularly related to weight management and joint support.
Keep reading to learn more about the history, characteristics, health problems, and nutritional needs of Auxois horses.
Auxois Horse History
The history of the Auxois is closely linked to the agricultural heritage of France. Today, the modern Auxois reflects the changing landscape of French farming and continues to play a role in local heritage and traditions.
Origin
The Auxois horse originated in the Côte-d’Or region of Burgundy, France. The breed’s roots trace back to the region’s native Bourguignon horses, who descended from the Great Horses of the Middle Ages. [1]
Early Auxois breeding began in the 19th century with the goal of producing a robust and versatile draft horse suited to heavy pulling in the region’s fertile plains. Genetic research has revealed that Ardennes and Percheron horses significantly influenced the breed. [1]
The resulting horse shared characteristics with its ancestors, but retained a distinctively regional character. Auxois horses were shorter and stockier than the Percheron, but with more size than the Ardennes.
By emphasizing strength, endurance, and a manageable disposition, breeders created a powerful yet compact horse ideal for tilling vineyards, pulling plows, and hauling timber.
Historic Use
During the early 20th century, the Auxois quickly gained popularity across Burgundy and neighboring regions. Known for their ability to work long hours in heavy soil, these horses became essential in farming operations. [2]
Their muscular build and docile temperament made them particularly useful in small-scale farms where tractors were either unavailable or impractical. [2]
However, following World War II, mechanization rapidly replaced draft horses in agriculture across Europe. The Auxois population declined steeply, and by the 1970s, the breed faced the risk of extinction. [2]
Eventually, conservationists and breed enthusiasts began to promote the Auxois as a living part of rural heritage, reintegrating the horse into eco-tourism and leisure pastimes.
Breed Registry
The Auxois was officially recognized as a distinct breed in 1912, when the French Ministry of Agriculture established the Stud-Book du Cheval Auxois, which remains the breed’s primary registry. [3]
Most breeding programs are concentrated in eastern France, and few Auxois horses live outside of their native country. The breed is classified under France’s nine official races de trait, or draft breeds, and benefits from national and regional efforts to preserve its genetic diversity. [4]
Despite its limited global reach, the Auxois is celebrated within France as a symbol of traditional agriculture and rural strength.
| Breed Summary | |
|---|---|
| Breed Name | Auxois |
| Breed Type | Draft |
| Origin | Burgundy, France |
| Breed Registry | Stud-Book du Cheval Auxois |
| Population Status | Rare |
| Average Height | 15.3 – 17 hh |
| Common Coat Colors | Bay, chestnut, roan, gray |
| Conformation | Short, deep, muscular body, broad forehead, straight profile, small alert ears, short thick arched neck, sloping shoulder, deep chest, compact barrel, short strong back, broad slightly sloped croup, short sturdy legs, large hooves |
| Common Uses | Agriculture, forestry, transportation, driving, carriage work, logging, trail riding, recreation |
| Temperament | Gentle, docile, calm, willing |
| Best For | Larger riders; educational programs; carriage rides |
| Common Health Concerns | PSSM1, chronic progressive lymphedema, osteoarthritis, hoof flares, cracks, abscesses, obesity, laminitis, equine metabolic syndrome |
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Breed Characteristics
The Auxois is a powerful draft horse breed known for its compact, muscular build, calm temperament, and ability to thrive in agricultural settings. Bred for strength and endurance, this horse is built to perform heavy pulling tasks with minimal exertion.
Today, the breed is recognized for its efficiency in draft work, gentle demeanor, and adaptability to modern uses.
Conformation
While the breed shares ancestry with other French drafts such as the Ardennes and Percheron, the Auxois has distinct traits that reflect its regional development in Burgundy’s fertile plains. [5]
The Auxois has a short, deep, and muscular body typical of cold-blooded draft horses.
An ideal Auxois exhibits the following conformation traits: [3]
- Height between 15.3 and 17 hands
- Broad forehead, straight profile, small, alert ears
- Short, thick, and arched neck set high into a sloping shoulder
- Deep chest, wide and compact barrel, well-sprung ribs
- Short and strong back with a well-muscled loin
- Broad and slightly sloped croup with a low-set tail
- Short, sturdy legs with large joints and clean, low-set hocks
- Large and well-formed hooves, suitable for carrying substantial weight
This conformation allows the Auxois to excel in slow, heavy draft work while also supporting longevity and soundness when properly managed.
Colors
The Auxois breed standard allows a limited range of coat colors, reflecting its traditional aesthetic and breeding practices. Accepted coat colors include:
- Bay
- Chestnut
- Roan
- Gray
Most Auxois horses are bay. [3]
The Auxois typically has minimal white markings and no excessive feathering, which distinguishes it from some other French and British draft breeds.
Temperament
The Auxois is widely praised for its gentle and docile nature. This breed was developed to work alongside farmers in close quarters, and its calm demeanor reflects that history.
Key temperament traits include a willing work ethic, even temperament, and low reactivity to environmental stimuli.
Because of their temperament, Auxois horses are well suited for educational programs, carriage rides, and community outreach where a calm and approachable horse is essential.
Disciplines
Historically bred for draft work, the Auxois remains highly capable in tasks that require pulling strength and stamina. While no longer a staple in modern agriculture, the breed has adapted to a variety of contemporary uses.
Auxois horses can still show off their pulling ability as recreational driving horses. They excel at pulling carriages, wagons, sleighs, and logs. These horses are often seen pulling carriages at heritage events and festivals in their home region.
Though not commonly ridden, some Auxois are trained under saddle for trail or recreational use. Like other draft horses, they are a good fit for larger riders who need stronger mounts to carry their weight.
Auxois Health Profile
Like other heavy draft breeds, Auxois horses have specific health considerations that require attentive management. Their large body size, easy keeper nature, and low activity level in modern environments predispose them to several health conditions.
Genetic Diseases
To date, no breed-specific inherited diseases have been widely documented in Auxois horses. However, as with many rare breeds, the relatively small gene pool presents a risk for reduced genetic diversity.
Genetic studies have confirmed that many draft breeds related to the Auxois horses, such as the Ardennes, are carriers of the GYS1 gene variant responsible for PSSM1. This hereditary muscle disease is characterized by abnormal glycogen accumulation in muscle tissue. [6]
Auxois horses with PSSM1 may experience muscle soreness, exercise intolerance, and tying-up episodes. While there is no cure for this condition, affected horses can live long and healthy lives with effective management changes. [6]
Health Problems
While robust in many ways, the Auxois horse is predisposed to several health concerns typical of large draft breeds.
Chronic Progressive Lymphedema (CPL), a condition involving progressive swelling and fibrosis of the lower limbs, has been documented in related European draft breeds. The condition is believed to involve a genetic component related to lymphatic drainage failure and horses with poor circulation or lack of exercise may have more severe clinical signs. [7]
Due to their size and body mass, Auxois horses are also prone to joint wear and conditions such as osteoarthritis, especially if overworked or inadequately conditioned.
The Auxois’ large and often flat feet can develop flares, cracks, and abscesses if not trimmed regularly. Their weight places increased stress on hooves, particularly in wet or soft footing. [8]
Care and Management
Good management practices are essential for preventing chronic issues and promoting the overall health of Auxois horses, including:
- Veterinary Exams: Regular veterinary appointments are important for monitoring the health of Auxois horses and detecting issues early, particularly concerns related to weight management and joint health.
- Vaccinations: A vaccination schedule recommended by a veterinarian helps protect Auxois horses and their herd mates from infectious diseases.
- Dental Care: Routine dental check-ups and teeth floating help maintain efficient chewing and digestion.
- Parasite Management: A targeted parasite control program based on fecal egg counts can prevent internal parasite infestations and support digestive health in Auxois horses.
- Hoof Care: Consistent farrier visits help maintain proper balance and reduce strain on joints. Auxois horses typically have strong, dense hooves, though those used for heavier work or driven on hard surfaces may benefit from shoeing for added protection.
Regular, low-impact exercise and turnout support lymphatic circulation, prevent obesity, and maintain joint mobility. Groundwork, light driving, and trail riding are all beneficial forms of activity for Auxois horses.
Nutrition
As a cold-blooded draft breed, the Auxois horse is often an easy keeper, prone to weight gain if fed in excess. Proper nutrition for the Auxois involves meeting their needs for maintenance and health without overfeeding calories, starch, or sugar.
Weight Maintenance
Auxois horses are naturally easy keepers, adapted to maintaining body condition on minimal feed.
A calorie-rich diet and lower workload in modern settings increases the risk of obesity in Auxois horses. Obesity is linked to serious health concerns such as insulin dysregulation, laminitis, and equine metabolic syndrome (EMS). [9]
It is important to regularly monitor your horse’s body condition and adjust the diet according to forage quality, workload, and turnout access. Aim to maintain your Auxois at a body condition score of 5 or 6 out of 9 on the Henneke scale.
Owners should avoid overfeeding, particularly with commercial grains or lush pasture. Consult an equine nutritionist for guidance in developing a diet that maintains a healthy body weight.
Sample Diet
Below is a general recommended feeding program for an average 1,800 lb (820 kg) Auxois horse at maintenance (no exercise).
| Feed | Amount per day |
|---|---|
| Mid-Quality hay (10% crude protein) | Free Choice |
| Salt | 45 g (3 tbsp) |
| Omneity® Pellets | 300 g (3 scoops) |
| Diet Analysis | |
| Digestible Energy (% of Req) | 114% |
| Protein (% of Req) | 158% |
| NSC (% Diet) | 8.8% |
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A typical diet for an adult Auxois horse in light work or maintenance can often consist entirely of forage paired with a vitamin and mineral balancer. Most draft horses can meet their energy and protein needs without concentrates.
However, hay alone is frequently low in certain vitamins and minerals, which can affect hoof strength, coat condition, and overall health. To fill these gaps, balance the diet with a comprehensive supplement such as Omneity®.
Omneity® provides optimal levels of biotin, zinc, and copper to promote strong hooves, antioxidants like vitamin E and selenium to support immune function, and essential amino acids to maintain muscle and topline. Its concentrated, low-calorie formula makes it ideal for easy-keeping draft breeds by delivering complete nutrition without adding excess sugar or starch [10].
Auxois horses with Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy (PSSM) may benefit from higher levels of dietary fat as a safer alternative to high-starch feeds. [11] Work with an equine nutritionist to formulate a diet that is safe for your PSSM horse.
Draft horses often need more water than other breeds. Clean, fresh water and free-choice salt should always be available, especially during hot weather or periods of increased activity. To meet sodium requirements, add loose salt to the daily ration.
Forage
Forage should be the foundation of your Auxois horse’s diet. Horses willingly consume approximately 2% of their body weight in hay daily, meaning a 1,800-pound Auxois horse will consume around 40 pounds of hay every day. [12]
Average quality, low-starch grass hay is typically the most appropriate option for Auxois horses, as it provides adequate fiber without excess energy.
Whenever possible, hay should be analyzed for nutrient content, particularly to assess levels of protein, sugar, starch, and trace minerals. Testing forage is also essential for Auxois horses with PSSM1 to ensure their hay has safe levels of hydrolyzable carbohydrates (HC; sugar + starch).
Auxois horses with access to pasture may require restricted grazing, especially in the spring and fall when HC levels are highest in pasture grass. Using a muzzle while your Auxois horse is on pasture or limiting their turnout time can help to limit their pasture grass consumption.
Using slow feeders or hay nets can help extend eating time, support digestive health, and mimic natural grazing behavior for horses receiving a restricted hay intake.
Feeding Recommendations
Most Auxois horses do not require commercial concentrates in their diet. High-starch, high-sugar grains can increase the risk of digestive upset and laminitis in this heavy draft breed. [13]
Offering a concentrated vitamin and mineral supplement in place of grains can help reduce excess calorie and starch intake. Soaked hay pellets or beet pulp are excellent fiber-based carriers for supplements in an Auxois horse’s feeding program.
Soaked beet pulp and forage cubes are also useful for senior Auxois horses with dental issues. An equine nutritionist can formulate a plan to meet nutritional requirements while managing fiber length for improved digestion for horses who need additional support.
When additional energy is needed, a fat supplement can provide a safe calorie source. Fats rich in anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids may also support joint function, coat condition, and respiratory health. [14][15][16]
Fresh water and free-choice salt should be available at all times. Providing 1–2 ounces of plain loose salt daily helps meet sodium needs and encourages adequate water consumption.
Nutritional Supplements
A balanced diet should be your priority when feeding your Auxois horse. After the diet is balanced, you can consider adding nutritional supplements for targeted support.
- W-3 Oil is a concentrated source of dietary fat and the omega-3 fatty acid DHA from marine sources, formulated to support a healthy coat, skin, joints, and metabolic function.
- MSM supplies bioavailable sulfur to help maintain joint health, connective tissue integrity, and overall comfort in hardworking or aging Auxois horses.
- Magnesium Oxide provides a source of magnesium that supports normal muscle function, relaxation, and nervous system health.
Submit your Auxois Horse’s information for a free evaluation and consult our qualified equine nutritionists for help formulating a balanced diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Auxois horses:
The Auxois horse is a rare French draft breed that originated in the Burgundy region. Known for strength, stamina, and a calm disposition, it was traditionally used for heavy farm work, forestry, and transportation. The breed is known for its broad frame, deep chest, muscular body, and gentle temperament. Today, the Auxois is valued both as a working horse and as a living symbol of rural French heritage.
Today, Auxois horses are mainly used for driving, carriage work, agritourism, and traditional heritage events in France. Some also work in light forestry or logging, where their strength and calm temperament are still valued. Although the breed was once an important farm horse, modern Auxois are more often seen in cultural demonstrations and recreational draft work. A small number are still raised for meat production, but conservation efforts increasingly focus on preserving the breed.
Auxois horses are generally hardy and easy to manage, but they are not a breed that can be fed casually. Like many draft horses, they are easy keepers and need careful dietary management to prevent obesity, laminitis, and metabolic issues. Routine hoof trimming, veterinary care, turnout, and regular low-impact exercise are important for keeping them sound and comfortable. Their large size also means owners need to stay proactive about joint support and weight control.
Yes, the Auxois is considered a rare breed with a small population centered mainly in eastern France. Its numbers declined sharply after agricultural mechanization reduced the need for working draft horses. Modern breeding programs and conservation efforts aim to protect the breed’s genetic diversity and maintain its place in French rural heritage. Even today, the Auxois remains uncommon outside its native region.
Auxois horses can be ridden, though they were bred primarily for pulling rather than saddle work. Some Auxois horses are used for light riding, trail riding, and recreational work under saddle, especially for larger riders who need a strong, sturdy mount. Their calm temperament and surefootedness can make them pleasant partners in low-intensity riding situations.
An adult Auxois typically eats about 2% of its body weight in forage each day. For an average 1,800 lb (820 kg) horse, that works out to roughly 40 lb of hay daily, though the exact amount depends on body condition, forage quality, workload, and pasture access. Most Auxois horses in maintenance or light work do well on a forage-based diet with a vitamin and mineral balancer rather than grain. Fresh water and free-choice salt should always be available.
Auxois horses are known for being gentle, docile, and willing to work. They were bred to work closely with people in agricultural settings, which helped shape their calm, steady nature. Most have an even temperament and low reactivity, making them well suited for driving, educational programs, and public events.
Auxois horses are heavy draft horses with a short, deep, and muscular build. They typically have a broad forehead, straight profile, and small, alert ears. Their neck is short, thick, and arched, leading to sloped shoulders, and they have a deep chest, compact barrel, and a broad slightly sloped croup. Their legs are short and sturdy with substantial joints, clean low-set hocks, and large well-formed hooves designed to support considerable weight. Overall, their conformation reflects strength and durability in slow, heavy pulling work.
Auxois horses come in a limited range of traditional draft horse colors. Accepted colors include bay, chestnut, roan, and gray, with bay being the most common. Most also have minimal white markings, which contributes to the breed’s classic and uniform appearance. Compared to some other draft breeds, the Auxois usually has little feathering on the lower legs.
Most Auxois horses stand between 15.3 and 17 hands high. Their height, combined with a broad body and substantial bone, gives them a very powerful appearance. While they are not the tallest draft breed, they are considered one of the heaviest French draft horses. Proper nutrition and steady growth management are important for supporting sound development in young horses.
Auxois horses can be a good fit for some beginners because they are typically calm, docile, and easy to handle. Their steady temperament makes them more forgiving than many hotter or more reactive breeds. However, their very large size and strength mean inexperienced handlers still benefit from guidance and supervision, especially during groundwork and daily care. As with any breed, suitability depends on the individual horse’s training, manners, and management.
Like many heavy draft breeds, Auxois horses can be prone to several health concerns related to their size and metabolism. These may include polysaccharide storage myopathy type 1 (PSSM1), chronic progressive lymphedema, osteoarthritis, and hoof problems such as flares, cracks, and abscesses. Because they are easy keepers, they are also at risk for obesity, laminitis, and equine metabolic syndrome if overfed or underexercised. Regular hoof care, weight management, turnout, and routine veterinary monitoring are important for long-term health.
Summary
The Auxois horse is one of the oldest French breeds, developed in the Burgundy region. It shares ancestry with other heavy French horses, including the Ardennes and Percheron.
- The Auxois was an integral part of agrarian Burgundy, developed for its powerful pulling and docile temperament
- The modern Auxois is on France's list of 9 protected draft breeds, and conservation efforts have kept adequate numbers in the region
- There are no breed-specific genetic diseases associated with the Auxois breed, but related draft breeds are carriers of PSSM-1
- Like other drafts, the Auxois is an easy keeper, making weight management and regular exercise an important part of management
References
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- Kander. A. and Warde. P. Energy Availability from Livestock and Agricultural Productivity in Europe, 1815–1913: A New Comparison. The Economic History Review. 2011. View Summary
- Règlement du livre généalogique du cheval Trait Auxois. IFCE. 2023.
- L’Institut français du cheval et de l’équitation. IFCE. 2025.
- Rhoad. A. Relation Between Conformation and Pulling Ability of Draft Horses. Journal of Animal Science. 1929.
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- Brys. M. et al. Chronic Progressive Lymphedema in Belgian Draft Horses: Understanding and Managing a Challenging Disease. Veterinary Sciences. 2023.
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- Manhart. D. R. et al. Markers of Inflammation in Arthritic Horses Fed Omega-3 Fatty Acids. The Professional Animal Scientist. 2009.
- Richards. T. et al. Effects of Dietary Camelina, Flaxseed, and Canola Oil Supplementation on Transepidermal Water Loss, Skin and Coat Health Parameters, and Plasma Prostaglandin E2, Glycosaminoglycan, and Nitric Oxide Concentrations in Healthy Adult Horses. Journal of Animal Science. 2023.
- Nogradi. L. et al. Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation Provides an Additional Benefit to a Low-Dust Diet in the Management of Horses with Chronic Lower Airway Inflammatory Disease. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine. 2015.
