 The original horses in Normandy and Brittany were small horses called bidets , introduced by the Celts , who settled in ancient Gaul beginning about the third century BC . Later , the Romans crossed them with larger mares . By the 6th century , the practice of horse racing was documented in the region , and beginning in the 10th century , these " Norman horses " were desired throughout Europe . During the 16th century , Norman horses were known to be heavy and strong , able to pull long distances , and used to pull artillery and diligences . Barb and Arabian blood was added during the reign of Louis XIV . 
