Why choose a Mule?

We are often asked questions, we mule owners. Sometimes they are politely phrased: "Oh yes, she's nice, but you won't be able to do much with that." Other times, it's less pleasant: "Why bother with that?"

And then there are the recurring comments: "So, you're giving up riding?" Or even: "You're going on a trip? Are you going to plow the arena and plant potatoes?"

So why was the mule chosen?

A mule is much more than a horse, as the Americans like to say. And it's true! More intelligent, more sensitive, more flexible, faster (when necessary, of course!), the mule is an extremely lively and surprising animal

Its versatility is no longer in doubt

The mule is the agility of the goat and the loyalty of the dog.

The intelligence of the mule

Olivier Courthiade states: "It is the only hybrid that has two hard drives, that of the horse by the mother and that of the donkey by the father." Scientifically, this is not proven, but in the field, this observation makes perfect sense. A mule can behave like a donkey at one moment, then like a horse the next. And when it mobilizes its "two hard drives", it thinks and reasons in an impressive way.

There is no shortage of anecdotes: every mule owner or enthusiast has a story to tell. Books such as Brèves de Mule or La Grande Histoire du Mulet are full of these captivating tales.

It is fascinating to come into contact with this animal. It is often said that the mule makes us humble, and it is true. It is common for us to try to impose our solution during an exercise or when faced with a tricky passage outdoors. But gently, "Mulette" shows us, and sometimes demonstrates, that no, this is not the right approach. It's amazing!

A relationship of intelligence and respect

Interacting with such an intelligent animal requires more respect. The mule, a keen observer, knows that she often has the advantage. Although they are incredibly gentle, they possess a strength that should not be underestimated.

And if they use their hooves, it can be for a friendly brush... or to send you to the moon!

If she can be tolerant of our clumsiness, injustice, on the other hand, will never be accepted! A justified blow from the stick can be tolerated, but if it is given unfairly, you risk losing your mule's trust.

Thinner and more sensitive

We know that a horse is naturally fine and sensitive. The mule, despite a sometimes cold appearance, is truly hypersensitive.

With them, no pretense: as much as you can sometimes fool a horse, a mule will never let itself be fooled. Be grounded, determined and precise. This is the art of mule-keeping know-how. Mules will teach you a lot: they show infinite patience towards their humans.

More flexible

Graceful and feline, they move with flexibility and elegance. In the saddle, their comfort is incomparable.

This flexibility, combined with their sure footing, allows them to preserve their safety - and often yours - on rough terrain where a horse could encounter difficulties.

Dame Julie 25 ans

More lively

Is it a flaw or a quality? It depends on the moment... To flee or avoid danger, mules are capable of lightning-fast reaction times, without any warning signal.

On foot, in hand, it is often their favorite game. We often hear: "She left without warning, I didn't see it coming!" Sometimes, it is a real defense, an instinctive escape. But other times, it is just a game: she will stop a few meters further, taunting you with a look with a mischievous air. You have to experience it at least once to understand it

More demanding of interactions and playful

Mules love to learn and interact with their human reference. They are always up for new adventures. And if, by chance, what you are proposing does not interest them today, they will find something else to suggest to you. The most important thing for them is to be with you.

More faithful

Loyal and exclusive, they will do anything to please you... but only for you, we agree! Your mule will be a true love with you, but can turn into terror with another human.

There you have it, you will have understood: a mule is like a horse… but better. Yes, there are “mule” horses, but they are not quite mules.