Shetland pony

The Shetland pony is a miniature yet remarkably strong and hardy Scottish breed with a dense coat, high intelligence and a lively character.

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Breed information

Country: Scotland
Height: up to 107 cm
Weight: 150–200 kg
Coat: very dense seasonal coat with abundant mane and tail, occurring in a wide range of colours
Suitable for: pony clubs, children's instruction, youth sport, therapy, light driving, shows and family keeping

Tags

horse pony Shetland children Scotland

Rating

Breed characteristics

Activity 8/10

Trainability 9/10

Good with children 10/10

Shedding 8/10

Guarding 2/10

Care 6/10

Description

About the breed

Overview

The Shetland pony is one of the smallest yet physically strongest horse breeds. It has a compact body, short powerful legs, broad chest and very dense mane, tail and winter coat. Petsi lists a height of up to 107 cm and a weight of 150–200 kg.

History

The breed developed on the Shetland Islands off the northern coast of Scotland under harsh weather and sparse grazing. During the nineteenth century these small, strong ponies were widely used in British mines.

Use

Today Shetland ponies are popular for children's instruction, pony clubs, equine-assisted therapy, light driving, shows and family farms.

Temperament

Temperament and behavior

Temperament

Shetland ponies are intelligent, curious and quick to remember cues, but they can also be independent and stubborn. With consistent socialisation they become friendly and dependable companions.

Care

Care and keeping

Care

Ponies can gain excess weight easily, so calorie intake and access to rich grass need careful control. Regular movement, grooming of the dense coat, hoof and dental care, parasite prevention and access to shelter are important.