Equine Encyclopedia

Chevaux du Monde is an evolving encyclopedia designed to document and illustrate equine breeds from across the world. It is not just a list of names: the goal is to connect each animal to its history, environment, morphology, and the human uses that shaped its development.

The project is meant to remain open, flexible, and useful. Rather than claiming to be definitive, it aims to offer a clear, well-structured resource that can grow over time through research, updates, and contributions.

Which breeds are included?

The encyclopedia includes riding horses, draft horses, sport breeds, local landraces, hardy ponies, and donkeys. It does not follow a rigid or closed system: if a breed has historical, cultural, or practical relevance, it may deserve a place here.

Horses, ponies, and miniature equines

• Horses: generally above 148 cm at the withers.
• Ponies: usually below 148 cm, often with distinct conformation traits.
• Miniature equines: very small equines selected for size and overall balance.

Why do breeds exist?

A breed is rarely accidental. It reflects adaptation to climate, terrain, work, riding style, breeding choices, and local needs. Some breeds were developed for pulling, others for speed, stamina, mountain travel, cavalry, or livestock work.

Are their origins always clearly known?

Not always. Some breeds are well documented through studbooks and formal standards, while others survive through local traditions, partial records, or reconstructed histories. Uncertainty is often part of the story.

An encyclopedia in motion

The profiles are not fixed forever. They can be expanded, corrected, or refined over time. This flexibility is part of the project itself: to understand better, compare more carefully, and build a resource that becomes more useful with every revision.

Some equine breeds are now at risk of disappearing. Their populations may be very small, their original uses may have declined, or their survival may depend on only a few dedicated breeders. Highlighting these breeds also means helping preserve living heritage.