In 2018, only 12 breeding donkeys were left in the Norman donkey breed. This robust equine helped the national dairy industry flourish from the end of the 19th century until the 1960s by transporting milk to the dairies on farms. The first officially recognized breed of donkey, the Norman donkey is also the smallest among its congeners. The national breed competition at the Haras National du Pin (national stud farm) participates in ensuring the preservation of the species through the selection of the future breeders.