Welsh Pony

The Welsh Pony actually refers to four sections in general. These sections are A, B, C, and D. The Welsh Pony is one of the most handsome ponies in Britain. It has run feral since long before the times of the Roman Empire. Nowadays it is popular throughout the planet. It is not only famous for its dependability but also for its good disposition. It is recognized for being spirited, daring and smart.

Origin of Welsh Pony

The Welsh Pony is aboriginal to the Welsh hills. It is a taller version of the Welsh Mountain pony. It owes a genealogical debt to a small Thoroughbred stallion called Merlin, a direct descendant of the Darley Arabian. It had arrived in Britain before the Romans and had established itself as fit, tough animal which has high resistance to disease. The legend, Julius Caesar introduced some Oriental blood to this pony.

In the past three hundred years minimum two Arabian stallions have run untamed in the Welsh countryside. They have unquestionably bred with the Welsh Pony. Even though Welsh Pony studs are present throughout Britain and the U.S, the resident stock is imported in order to keep the breed true to type. Still, the native stock is taken from the wild herds that live in the mountains and moorlands of Wales. These animals exist in a Darwinian environment, inbreeding stoutness and resistance to disease.

Physique of Welsh Pony

The physique of Welsh Pony seems inspired by the build of a minuscule coach horse. It has an attractive oriental-type head. The eyes are bold and ears are small and pointed. This pony has a body that is compact with noted depth of girth. This is called the ‘Welsh breadbasket’. It has an elegant neck and profound, sloping shoulders. Usually, its legs are hard and its hooves are tiny and hard.

Height of Welsh Pony

The Welsh Pony usually stands between 12 and 14 hands high. The height of this pony depends on the section type, to which it belongs.

Body Color of Welsh Pony

You can find the Welsh pony in all solid colors. The color of its coat may be any except the speckled patterns like Appaloosa, chestnut, black, pinto and bay and these are the most common colors. Sometimes, palomino, gray and dun colors are also found on its body.

Temperament of Welsh Pony

The nature of the Welsh Pony is kind, docile and calm.

Uses of Welsh Pony

The Welsh Pony can be used in a number of ways. In the days of old, they were used in coal mines and to run on postal routes. The Welsh Cob was used by the British War Office for pulling heavy guns and gear through land where motorized vehicles could not be used. They were also used for mounted infantry. In the present scenario, they have proved their ability of driving in competition at Federation Equestrian International (FEI) level. They have been put to use in dressage. They have also given tough competitions to one another in breed show competitions like eventers, hunters and western pleasure horses.

The Welsh Pony of Cob type was formerly most in demand as a harness pony and might have declined in numbers through inadequate competition with the motor vehicles. Fortunately, trekking holidays have saved it from becoming a museum piece for the connoisseur. Its strong build gives it enough substance for adults to sit on without guilt. It is a perfect mount for the increasing numbers of holiday-makers who flock to Wales for a taste of the outdoor life. There are several distinct types of these Ponies and Cobs. Although quite distinct in appearance and height, still they have the same family likeness, true pony character, air and action.

See more: Wren Horse