Intro
The American Walking Pony is a relatively new pony breed, developed for use as a show pony in gaited show competitions. They are capable of multiple gaits, walk, pleasure walk, merry walk, trot, canter, slow gait & the rack.
Origins
The breed originated with a Tennessee Walking Horse/ Welsh pony cross, which created a handsome animal with gliding gaits. The seven-gaits of this pony are inherited & natural. In fact, both the pleasure walk & merry walk gaits are unique to the breed.
The American Walking Pony Registry was founded in 1968 by the breed founder, Joan Hudson Brown. The registry requires that both parents are either registered Walking horses or Welsh Ponies (or a cross between the two).
Features
Average height 14 hands
Light, flowing action
Physique
Small, neatly chiseled head
Eyes are bold & set wide apart
Ears are well-shaped & pointed
Neck is long, arched & high-set
Back is short
Long, sloping shoulders & deep girth
Traditional Colors
Solid colors
Temperament
Calm & willing
Use
Cart pony
Show pony
Sport pony
Pleasure pony