From loyal steeds to scene-stealing companions, horses have played memorable roles throughout Disney’s animated history. D23 spotlighted eight standout equines from the Disney and Pixar catalog.
Samson (Sleeping Beauty, 1959)
Prince Phillip’s horse Samson is present for key moments across Sleeping Beauty — from the first encounter with Briar Rose in the forest to the aftermath of Phillip’s battle with Maleficent. He was reportedly easily motivated by the promise of extra food.
Frou-Frou (The Aristocats, 1970)
Voiced by Nancy Kulp, Frou-Frou is the palomino owned by Madame Bonfamille. Despite the size gap, she becomes close friends with Duchess and the kittens and plays a role in saving them from the scheming butler Edgar.
Philippe (Beauty and the Beast, 1991)
Philippe belongs to Belle and her father Maurice. He’s the horse that accompanies Maurice on the fateful trip that ends at the Beast’s castle, and later plays a role in the wolf encounter before Belle’s rescue.
Khan (Mulan, 1998)
Khan is Mulan’s horse and one of her companions throughout the film. He’s notably not a fan of Mushu, though Mushu claims to understand him. Khan helps Mulan save Shang during the avalanche.
Bullseye (Toy Story Franchise)
Bullseye first appears in Toy Story 2 as part of Al McWhiggin’s Woody’s Round-Up collection. His personality leans more puppy than horse, and he’s among Jessie’s most devoted friends throughout the franchise.
Angus (Brave, 2012)
Princess Merida’s Clydesdale Angus is her most trusted companion in Brave. She allows no one else in the castle to care for him. His name also refers to a county and government council area in Scotland.
Maximus (Tangled, 2010)
The kingdom guard’s most effective member, Maximus starts as an adversary to Flynn Rider but reveals a softer side, largely thanks to Rapunzel. He’s one of the more expressive non-speaking animal characters in Disney animation.
Mayor Brian Winddancer (Zootopia 2, 2025)
The newest addition to the list, Mayor Winddancer is voiced by Patrick Warburton. A charismatic former actor turned politician, Winddancer has mayoral dreams that may come with moments of genuine heroism.
D23 published the full rundown in celebration of the Lunar New Year and the Year of the Horse. Source: D23
