Where did Blondes come from?
Blondes are a purebred which originated in France. The first herdbook was opened in 1898. Three separate strains, from the plains, hills and mountains, were used to develop the Blonde breed. This contributes to their great adaptability and provides a powerful tool for further genetic development.

How has the breed’s history contributed to its characteristics?
Blonde muscle development, hardiness and docility remain from the breed’s days as draft animals. Unmatched Blonde adaptability results from the diverse climate in the area of their development. It ranges from hot and humid coastal plains to hills with hot dry summers to the rocky and cold Pyrenees mountains with sparse vegetation.

Are Blondes related to Charolais? Limousin?
Only remotely. All of the light colored breeds of Europe probably originated from the same seedstock, which was brought to the area by barbarian invaders in the period before 600 A.D. Since that time they have developed into distinctly different breeds (i.e. Jersey, Limousin, Blonde d’Aquitaine, etc.) based on the environment of the area and the selection practices of the breeders.

Has there been organized breed improvement?
Selective breeding programs, based on performance, have improved the naturally high carcass yield and calf growth rate as well as increasing milk production, improving muscle patterns and conformation. Calving ease has been improved through development of a longer calf.

What is a Fullblood? Purebred? Percentage Blonde?
A Fullblood is 100% Blonde d’Aquitaine. Its pedigree will reflect ancestry back to the French Herdbook on both the Dam and Sire side. A Purebred has been bred up from another breed by crossing with Blondes until the prescribed level of Blonde purity is reached. To be considered Purebred, males must be 93.75% Blonde or greater and females must be 87.5% Blonde or greater.