How Much Does A Percheron Horse Cost
A Percheron horse costs between $1,000 and $25,000+.
The price tag depends on factors like the horse’s age, pedigree, and training. Plus, there are ongoing expenses like feeding, vet visits, and accessories.
Let’s explore how much a Percheron horse costs to help you budget for these impressive animals.
In the US, a Percheron horse usually costs between $1,000 and $25,000.
Foals and younger horses are priced on the lower end, while trained, purebred Percherons—especially those approved by the Percheron Horse Association of America (PHAOA)—will hit the higher range.
Introduction to Percheron Horses
The Percheron horse is a powerful breed that originated in France. Known for their impressive size, strength, and gentle temperament, Percheron horses have been used for centuries as war horses, draft horses, and riding horses.
Origin and History of the Percheron Horse Breed
It has its roots in the Huisne River Valley in France, where they were bred as war horses in the 12th century. Over time, they were exported to other parts of Europe and were prized for their strength and endurance.
In the 19th century, Percheron horses were brought to the United States, where they were used for farming, logging, and other forms of heavy labor. Today, they are still used for these purposes, but they are also popular as riding horses and show horses.
Characteristics of Percheron Horses
Size and Weight
Percheron horses are one of the largest horse breeds in the world, with adults typically standing between 15.1 and 18.1 hands (61 and 73 inches) tall and weighing between 1,100 and 2,600 pounds (500 to 1,200 kg).
Colors and Markings
Percheron horses are typically gray or black, with some white markings on their face and legs. They may also have a small amount of white on their belly or chest.
Temperament and Diet
Percheron horses are known for their gentle and even-tempered nature, making them an excellent choice for riders of all experience levels. They are also intelligent and willing to please, which makes them easy to train.
Percheron horses are herbivores and require a diet of high-quality hay, grass, and grains. They are also prone to obesity, so their diet should be carefully managed to ensure they maintain a healthy weight.
Percheron horses are also prone to certain health issues, including equine polysaccharide storage myopathy (EPSM), a genetic disorder that affects the muscles. Regular veterinary care and a healthy diet can help prevent or manage this condition.
Overall, Percheron horses are a magnificent breed that is well-suited to a variety of roles, from riding and driving to farming and logging. Their gentle temperament, intelligence, and strength make them an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile horse.
What Factors Influence The Cost Of A Percheron Horse?
The cost of Percheron horses varies based on numerous factors.
Age
The price of a Percheron depends on the horse’s age.
Foals: $1,000 – $3,000 – These horses are young and untrained, so you’re paying for potential.
Young horses (2-5 years old): $2,500 – $8,000 – The horses have just come out of the baby phase, but still need training.
Mature horses (6+ years old): $4,000 – $15,000 – The prime phase. They are well-trained and experienced.
Interestingly, foal pricing can be similar to the cost of a Miniature horse ($500 and $7,000) even though you will get much more horse for your money. While Miniature horses are significantly smaller than Percherons, younger horses tend to come with a lower price tag until they’re trained.
Training and skills
The more trained the Percheron, the higher the cost.
Untrained: $1,000 – $4,000
Riding/driving trained: $5,000 – $10,000
Competition horses: $10,000 – $25,000
The training factor is very similar to the costs of a Tennessee Walking horse ($3,000 to $10,000), where specific skills like their distinctive gait can add to their price.
Pedigree and bloodline
A top bloodline guarantees not just performance but also potential resale value.
Purebred: $5,000 – $15,000
Mixed/non-pedigreed: $1,500 – $5,000
This is quite similar to the cost of an American Paint horse ($2,000 to $25,000), where strong pedigrees can significantly boost a horse’s value, especially in competitive circles.
In comparison, the cost of a Mustang horse ($500 to $12,000) can give you an idea of what a smaller, more agile horse goes for—although Mustangs are bred for endurance rather than the heavy work like Percherons. In comparison, a Friesian horse, known for its shiny black coat and elegant movement, can be more expensive due to its distinctive features.
Gender
Breeding potential affects the price of Percheron horses.
Mares: $3,000 – $10,000
Geldings: $2,500 – $8,000
Stallions: $5,000 – $15,000
Health and condition
Healthy Percheron horses will always cost more. Before you buy, a vet check is essential to ensure the horse is in tip-top shape. Remember, a horse with health issues might cost you less to buy but more in the long run. Check out our article Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth for a slightly humerous take on it!
How much is a Healthy horse: Normal market rate
How much is a horse Health problems: It depends on the issue, but expect to pay between $500 – $3,000. Also ask yourself, will the horse fit my needs? If it’s to be a companion then an old niggling injury which means it can’t be ridden isn’t really a problem.
Location
Prices shift based on where you’re buying your Percheron horse breed.
Expensive areas (e.g., California, East Coast cities): $7,000 – $15,000 for mature horses
Cheaper areas (e.g., Midwest, rural areas): $2,500 – $6,000
Purpose
If you’re looking for a trail horse, you’ll pay the least. If you are purchasing for competition or work, you’ll pay more.
Work horses: $3,000 – $8,000
Competition horses: $10,000 – $25,000
Pleasure horses: $2,500 – $6,000
How Much Does It Cost To Own A Percheron Horse?
Owning a Percheron breed can cost between $14,000 to $77,000 annually. This depends on factors like boarding, training, healthcare, and more.
Let’s break down the costs in more detail.
Boarding costs
~$1,200 – $14,400 per year
If you don’t have your own barn or stable, you probably are wondering how much it costs to board a horse. Here are your options:
Basic boarding: $200 – $500 per month – covers basic shelter, stall cleaning, and turnout in a pasture.
Full-service boarding: $500 – $1,200 per month – stables that include additional services like feeding, grooming, and regular care. Some often come with perks like riding arenas and on-site trainers.
Feeding costs
~$2,280 to $5,250 per year
Percheron horses weigh between 1,800 and 2,600 pounds, and all that bulk requires a specific horse diet.
Hay: ~$100 – $300 per month
Grain: ~$50 – $150 per month
Supplements: ~$20 – $100 per month
Treats (fruits and veggies): $20 – $50 per month
Healthcare and vet costs
~$1,200 – $4,300 annually
Horse ownership requires routine vet care, plus the occasional emergency. The Percheron draft horse is prone to certain health issues, including equine polysaccharide storage myopathy (EPSM), which requires regular veterinary care. Here’s what you’ll need to budget for:
Routine veterinary care: $200 – $400 per visit. This covers the basics like annual check-ups, vaccinations for diseases such as West Nile Virus or rabies, and dental floating.
Farrier services: $50 – $150 every 6-8 weeks.
Emergency vet visits: Budget an additional $500 – $2,500 for equine diseases like Equine polysaccharide storage myopathy, injuries, or other things that may affect the horse’s health.
Insurance costs
~$450 – $1,200 annually
Horse insurance is a good idea, especially if your horse is used for agricultural work, competition, or breeding. There are two main types of insurance:
Mortality insurance: 3-5% of the horse’s value, around $150 – $500 annually.
Major medical insurance: ~$300 – $1,200 per year. This covers veterinary bills for accidents, illness, or surgery.
Gear and accessories
~$250 – $1,000 yearly
You’ll require specific horse equipment that can handle this horse’s muscular build, which means higher costs for tack and accessories.
Saddle: A heavy-duty saddle suitable for a draft horse can range from $500 – $3,000.
Bridle and halter: Heavy-duty bridles will run you around $50 – $250.
Horse blankets: These can range from $100 – $400 each. Make sure to measure your horse for a blanket before buying.
Other accessories: Grooming kits, lead ropes, and other equipment may cost an additional $50 – $200.
Training costs
~$6,000 – $30,000 annually
Percheron horse breeds, especially if they are young or untrained, will need proper training. Training costs for Percherons can be higher compared to other draft horse breeds due to their size and specific training requirements. Here are your options:
Professional training: ~$500 – $1,000 per month, with training taking anywhere from a few months to a year.
Specialised training: ~$1,000 – $2,500 per month, if you’re looking to prepare your Percheron for competitions or heavy farm work.
It can cost 1000s of dollars to get a horse trained to the level of these Percherons I met at Oktoberfest
Registration costs for shows and events
~$550 – $3,000 annually
If you plan to take your Percheron to shows or competitions, there are additional fees. Given that Percheron horses live between 25 to 40 years, long-term costs for shows and events can accumulate over time:
Show registration fees: ~$50 – $500 per event, depending on the level of competition and the prestige of the event.
Travel and accommodation: These costs can vary greatly, spanning from $500 – $2,500 per event.
How Much Does A Percheron Horse Cost In The UK?
British Percheron horses normally sell for between £2,000 ($2,400) and £15,000 ($18,300) in the UK.
A young, untrained foal can go for as low as £2,000 ($2,400). On the other hand, a purebred Percheron trained for competitions or farm work is usually priced at £15,000+ ($18,300).
When compared to similar draught breeds like Shires, Percherons sit at a slightly lower range. In fact, the cost of a Shire horse can reach £20,000+ ($24,400+).
How much does a Percheron draught horse cost?
Today’s Percheron starts at around $1,000 for young, untrained foals. However, a top-quality Percheron with exceptional lineage, advanced training, and strong stamina can cost $25,000+.
Are Clydesdales bigger than Percheron horses?
Yes, Clydesdales are bigger than Percherons—and they are measured in hands. Clydesdales stand 16-18 hands high. Meanwhile, Percherons generally stand 15.2 to 17 hands. Both are draught horses, but Clydesdales are taller and more stately looking, while Percherons are a bit smaller and more muscular.
Are Percherons more expensive than Gypsy and Palomino horses?
Yes, Percherons are usually pricier than Gypsy horses and Palominos.
Percherons cost between $1,000 and $25,000+.
The cost of Gypsy horses typically ranges from $6,000 to $50,000.
The cost of Palomino horses ranges from $2,500 to $25,000.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a Percheron horse for work, show, or companionship, the UK market is as diverse as the breed itself. Each factor, from pedigree to size, affects the final cost of your draught horse.
If you’re considering similar breeds, check out how much a Belgian horse costs, as they can be quite comparable in price, but with differences in size and strength that might affect your decision.
Use the price ranges above to calculate the approximate cost of owning this breed.
