Chapter 3. Pony Breed Examples
Learn About Pony Breeds
There are many differently breeds of horses and ponies, and some are better suited for some jobs than others. They are bred over time to have certain traits that help them to excel at certain jobs.
Ponies for example are often bred to be small and hardy, with temperments suited to being around children.
Learn about some popular pony breeds below.
Shetland Pony
The Shetland pony originated in the Shetland Islands off the coast of Scotland. It is a strong, hardy, and intelligent breed. It is used mainly as a children’s riding pony and for driving.
- Breed: Shetland
- Height: Under 12.2hh
- Origin: Scotland
Haflinger Pony
The Haflinger pony is versatile for both riding and driving. It is known for it’s solid conformation, hardiness, and even temperament. The Haflinger breed has unique golden chestnut coloring with a long, flowing white mane and tail.
- Breed: Haflinger
- Height: Around 13.3hh
- Origin: Austria
Welsh Pony
The Welsh Pony has it’s origins with the Arabian breed and originally came from the mountains of Wales. They are usually medium sized with elegant heads and quality conformation. They are known for their floating trot and are used for pleasure riding, jumping and driving.
- Breed: Welsh Pony
- Height: Around 13.2hh
- Origin: Wales
Connemara Pony
The Connemara pony is tough and hardy with a pretty head that shows it’s Arabian and Thoroughbred influences. It is a performance pony with good sense, used mainly for pleasure riding, eventing, driving, jumping and hunting.
- Breed: Connemara
- Height: Between 13hh and 14.2hh
- Origin: Ireland