The original Shetland Pony came to the Americas from Scotland late in the 19th century and is quite different from the American Shetland. The imports quickly became popular among the people in North America and breeding programs were put in place to enhance desired characteristics.
A New Breed of Pony
Image from Belinda Hankins Miller
The American Shetland Pony is the result of those breeding practices, governed & overseen by the American Shetland Pony Club, established in 1888.
The original Shetland was a short, stocky animal built to withstand severe weather conditions, however over the years in the states the breed has changed in confirmation.
Made For Show
The American Shetland has a more refined look, due to the influence of Hackney pony, Arabian & Thoroughbred blood. From a tough island pony, to a slender, showy cart & riding mount, this breed is an entirely different animal than those originally imported from the Shetland Islands.